1957 Ford frame

[Kennedy]

Can anyone tell me where the 2" difference is in a 116" and a 118" wheel base 57 Ford frame? I'm needing a new frame for my 116" wheel base 57 Ranch Wagon and all I can find is 118" wheel base frames.

Also, I have also been told that a 116" wheel base 56 Ford frame is the same as a 57 except for the body mount location. Does anyone know if there is any truth to that?

Thank You
Kennedy

[Ford blue blood]

Can't answer that but it seams like it would be in the area between the front and rear wheels under the body.

There is a fellow on the 57Fordsforever web site that had a Ranchero from to give away. His screen name is BWhitmore.

Try this link http://57fordsforever.com/smf/index.php?topic=4128.0

[Oldmics]

Comparing the 56 to the 57 frame specifically and only for the station wagon and courier (which are the same) which would be correct for your Ranchero, there are a lot of differences.

To cut to the chase a 56 frame wont work and only a station wagon/courier from a 57 donor will work for your replacement needs.

There is a 5" difference in the frame length between the 116" wheelbase and the 118" wheelbase vehicles on the 57 vehicles.

Oldmics

[oj]

[QUOTE=Ford blue blood;910148]Can't answer that but it seams like it would be in the area between the front and rear wheels under the body.

Woot! that made my day, I've been doing suspensions this afternoon and a coilover spring just whizzed past my ear. The above just put a smile on my face, thanks.

[Kennedy]

Thanks for all the info.

[JeffB2]

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We have had guys swap front clips in my 1952-59 Ford Group with the 1952-55 Mercs the difference is usually behind the front seat in the rear seating area to allow for additional leg room in the premium models.

[cmintsurfer]

Kennedy, when you say "all I can find are 118" wheel base frames" are you referring to 1989 and older Lincoln Town car frames that have a similar shape as the original Ford frame under the 57? I have a project that is holding on the same decision. My 57 Ranchero frame was cut just behind the rear window and removed before I bought it.

[cmintsurfer]

My mistake. The 57 500 is the 118" frame you are referring to. I don't know the answer

[Rowdy]

Would the frame from this one be the correct wheel base? Rod

[Ford blue blood]

Nope, that is a 500 and it is 118".

[Frankenstein57]

The rancheros were built on a wagon platform, the difference is in the crossmember over the rear end. This could be altered. I have two ranchero frames, a solid Vegas car and an Indiana frame, Mark