1929 Truck "Future Updates"
The truck has been a lot of fun... but ever feel your not quite to your goal?
A pretty good goal! Some Photoshop magic has P-Woods truck closer to my vision. Maybe in the future I'll even paint mine.
This journey started because of a truck a I saw numerous times in my youth, and yep it made an impact on me, then in my early 20's I was fortunate to work and ride around in a '32 version. My motivation for change isn't purely nostalgic, but I'm lacking some practicability as well, in simple terms "she just aint getting the job done". I knew there would be some limitations of a 90 year old vehicle even though driving it is an awesome experience, maybe because its so much fun I want to go farther and just a little faster. At the same time a I want to make it more useful to my lifestyle so lets get going with some changes.
As it sits today. Not bad, just not there yet.
Partial parts list and ramblings:
Model TT or early AA stake bed: I found one on the HAMB for sale and snagged it. Its the size I wanted like pictured above which can haul cargo 8' x 5' use metal stakes and will be easy to restore (or leave as ) with the exterior dimensions at 100" it will be necessary to move the rear axle back further.
AA frame (still need): The short version, missed a nice one for $100! Moving to the Larger AA frame is a must and will hopefully be a little stronger foundation with less flex. Keep in mind weight kills, frame will be on a diet, tube mounts and loosing the rear axle and suspension should be a big help.
Front Suspension: New spindles, arms, later tie rod ends and front tube shocks with possible pan hard bar. Worried the front is a little weak and will heft up the front suspension for a little better road feel at 65mph. I didn't update my tie rod balls and think the oblong shape causes an issue and suspect the tension spring takes some soft action to bumps at over 40. However for now will keep my steering box, if needed in the future can replace with a F100.
Simmons aftermarket head and dual carbs: This with the current cam and lightened flywheel these should help with power. Rare stuff and yes years to find but ready to go. Perhaps another trick added too.
T5 Transmission with overdrive: Secured a T-5, still deciding on adapter or aftermarket bellhousing, keeping it open drive will solve a lot of issues too.
Open driveshaft rear axle: 90-92 Ranger axle (58" width), 3:80 3:55 and 3:73 ratio available or...
discovered Toyota 4runner axles are 55" huh to hub and have a nice looking center section. Both of these will solve the rear brake update too!
Parallel rear springs: Modern Ford F series spring hangers are stamped and would look right riveted to chassis outer since they would be in full view. New w/ bushings for under $120 (a bargain). Running the larger F150 springs gives more options for weight matching but require wider pads. I will run the same air assist shocks.
Hydraulic brakes: Added speed and control, I can use what comes with rear axle plus new drum up front w/ prop valve. I could go disc on the front and save a good amount and run a dust cover to help the visual look, but it's still not as good looking as the new Bendix. Some nice plans on www.fordbarn for M/C mount fabrication.
6v to 12v neg. ground: It's the convenience factor for phone and battery charging. I just need to swap my current alternator.
Turn signals: Safety as I've had a couple issues with uneducated motorists. Vintage industrial truck column mount to with new switch system installed.
Wheels: I could have "The Wheel kid" widen my 18" another 1-2" to give option of a slightly wider rear tire, bias ply trailer tires are the winner.
Inspiration:
Another view, I'll change up the rears tires slightly.
Love the cover, I want this to double as my camping set up.
Slovers truck, I knew it in Grade School watching Pete Pine Sr. using it for his roofing business.
