Looks like I've poked a bit of a hornet's nest here but I definitely appreciate all the feedback you guys! I will most likely leave the frame alone as I also don't want to destroy a 76 year old piece of history. And Robert, when I do weld on the frame I will make sure I use a 230 volt machine with gas,(there was a badly done cut and straighten job on the frame which I will have to repair). My main concern was destroying the frame by not boxing and having a crack develop or a major warp. But if you guys think the frame can handle the torque of a stock V8 I will gladly leave it as is. What about welding the cross members to the rails as they are only riveted right now? Would this give the frame a little more stability? It seems like there is excessive movement at some of the cross member rivets but maybe this is by design. My goal is to keep the truck as original as possible with the exception of the drive train and will not be driving with a lead foot.
Thanks
Red
