31 Ford Model A Body Support During Resto

[bomber]

After being a lazy son of a gun for way too long, I'm just about ready to pull the body off of teh 31 Ford Model A Roadster in our motorpool --

Once it's off the frame, I need a support for the body itself to weld, pound, and otherwise abusing the poor dear . . . .

Home built and cheap is good, as once the project is done, I can go back to messing with bikes, so I simply don't need anything permanent . . . .

I have a feeling I'm not the only one that needs to hold a body off the floor . . .

all input and suggestions are welcome, and thanks!

 

[PocketThunder]

Maybe get 4 caster wheels from NorthernTool and buy some 2x2 tube steel and weld up your own cart for the body. It cant be that heavy and then you can roll it around.

btw: what is a motorpool?

 

[rickairmedic]

I have seen many model A's set ontop of 2X4 wooden frames with casters under them to move them around on . They are not that heavy and 2X4's on edge will support them just fine so basically just a 2X4 box frame with casters under it a bottom shelf might be handy to though . When done put a top on the cart and now its a mobile workbench .


Rick

 

[russlaferrera]

btw: what is a motorpool?[/QUOTE]

A military term, meaning Garage/shop

 

[bomber]

Pocket -- Motorpool is a US Military term for the pool a vehicles a unit has at it's disposal . . . . .

Pocket/rick -- the stipped body is listed at 435 pounds, so I think you're suggestions are right on target . . . . I think I'll go 2 X 4, though, cheaper, and more easily reusable when the project is done . . . .

great thinking, gents!

 

[62 bird]

If you have never done a body off on a A, T, or B Ford, I commend you for courage. Be careful you dont get hooked on them. I have restored them for over 30 years and they are habit forming. About the temp. support. If you are going to use wood, I would recommend a "T" shape w/ 2x6 vertical w/ 2x4 horiz. for max. stiffness and more surface to fasten the body. You will not only end up with material for another use, but it is very important to maintain front cowl and body relationship correct or there will be a problem withe the door opening, even if it is a coupe or sedan. Best of time to you. Hope you have fun.

 

[FunfDreisig]

....I think I'll go 2 X 4, though, cheaper, and more easily reusable when the project is done . . . .

I'd use 2 1/2" deck screws in the assembly. They'll let you tighten up the frame after it has taken a few whacks and they make disassembly/reuse of the lumber much easier.

FWIW I rarely use nails anymore.

Funf Dreisig

 

[PurdueSD]

pics?.... and good luck!

 

[bomber]

Bird -- Can you elaborate on the T shape you describe? I have this vision (incorrect, I'm sure) of the body hanging from this T with the cowl near the floor and the rumble seat in the rafters . . . . . I love working on this car -- dead-nuts simple, clearly designed to be maintained by the average Joe, parts are available (thank goodness, so for two out of two fenders really need to be replaced), and, when you dirve it any where, everyone smiles!

Funf -- deck or drywall screws, aye! A friend turned me on to the concept of screws and cordless drill about 20 years ago -- I've only used nails on shingles ever since.

Purdue -- pics in few mikes . . . . .

I've got the front partially stripped:

Rear Fenders are next (the innder wheel well needs some love -- anyone have experience with Eastwood's Stich Welder?)

And, in honor of the day, an original accessory ;-}

 

[rickairmedic]

Thats a mighty clean A bone I am guessing an older resto . Hows the wood on the car I have heard its fun to replace .


Rick

 

[bomber]

according to my father-in-law, who owned it from the late 50s til he passed about 15 years ago, it was never really restored -- just maintained (fine line, I know)

I've no idea how the wood is . . . . I may be replacing the metal blade in the band-saw, though ;-}

The old nail has her it's front wheels in the Atlantic and Pacific oceans -- gotta take good care of her . . . . . .

 

[kbs2244]

Check out the car restro sites for ideas on “rotisseries”
You can spin the body upside down if you want.
You should be able to find big buck ones for the pros or one time plans for the home guy.