The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area Driveline 47-54 frame differences?

Hey how’s it going guys. I was writing to ask if there were any differences in the frame on the 47-54 3100’s. I have a 54 3100 and the frame has a lot of rust on it. I know a guy selling a frame from a 48 3100 that looks to be in pretty good shape for $380. I was kinda thinking about buying it and restoring the frame, then when it comes time for my restoration I could just swap over the cab and drivetrain from my 54 onto the 48 frame. Would this work? Thank you!

Kyle there is one major difference between 1954/55st and earlier frames.

The major difference is that there is no need for a transmission rear-mount (and frame cross-member) in 1954/55st because the engine mount cross-member changed. Use the earlier clutch housing on the earlier frame (and use a rear transmission mount).

http://www.1954advance-design.com/Documents/EngineeringFeatures/slides/orig_Page49.html (three pages)

Hy Kyle S, as far as I know the kickup over the rear axle on the 54/55 chassis is much less than the earlier chassis, this requires different pickup box mountings (light trucks are not my area of expertise, but I'm pretty sure I'm correct about this difference and the one tclederman mentioned) hope that helps.

I think the removal of the wood blocks under the bed allows for a deeper pickup box?

http://www.1954advance-design.com/Documents/EngineeringFeatures/slides/orig_Page28.html

Instead of adding transmission mounts and changing frame cross member, would I be able to take the ones off my 54 frame and put them on the 48 frame? If it’s all too much of a hassle I’m sure I could find a 54 frame down the road

You wouldn't be able to duplicate the lower kickup of the frame rails over the rear axle without major surgery. And I doubt if a 54 bed would fit correctly on a 47-53 frame.

Thanks for the fast replies! Looks like I’ll pass on the 48 frame. But I appreciate every bodies help, it’s great to have a forum like this