Subframe question.
 

I have just received a new, complete, subframe for the 1928 roadster pickup that I am rebuilding. It would seem to me that the original subframe will have to be removed and the body reattached to the new subframe. Am I correct or way off the mark? If I am correct, how is the body attached to the subframe, riveted or welded?
Any advise or suggestions would be appreciated. Thanks, Chris.

Re: Subframe question.
 

What are you calling a subframe? Model As have a frame. Picture please.

Re: Subframe question.
 

Most, not all, of the body's upper parts were riveted to the body subframe. Take a good look at the Open Cab body that you have and the Pickup body...you can plainly see all the riveting that took place...each body part was placed in a special jig and was built up that way.

Pluck

Re: Subframe question.
 

Attached are some photo's as requested. Is the framework "original" or a home made job? My intent is to use the new subframe but that depends on the information passed on to me.

Re: Subframe question.
 

This is a great example how us all using Ford's nomenclature greatly reduces confusion. Ford called Sill Assemblies what some refer to as sub-rail or subframe.

Re: Subframe question.
 

Thanks Brent...you are correct on the nomenclature...it should be "Sill (floor side or floor cross) Assembly, Center, Front, Rear."

Pluck

Re: Subframe question.
 

Whatever it was called, I recon it was wood.

Re: Subframe question.
 

The Sills and floorpan appear to be reproduction and not original but will work if measurments are made to match the original holes to assemble the body panels.

Do they look as the original?

Pluck

Re: Subframe question.
 

The cowl looks local RHD which would have had a wood sill somewhat like this:
https://i.ebayimg.com/00/s/MTIwMFgxN...Y~xrP/$_20.JPG

The old sills in the photo look like tube for wood replacement, hot rod style.

The quarter panels behind the doors would be repo? They don't look like local panels.
If repo they should match the steel new sill.

The cowl "should" work with the new steel sill.

Thanks for the photos Brent!
http://www.model-a-ford.com/proj_12.shtml#

Re: Subframe question.
 

If it is an Australian, right hand drive car then it most likely was wood. Just like updraught said.

Re: Subframe question.
 

Many thanks for all the comments, it would appear that the original sill was wood and at some time has been replaced as mentioned by both updraght and Wagga A'er. On closer inspection, I have found that pop rivets have been used to attach the body to the sill. Pop rivets only came out in '27 _ '28 according to wikipedia.
I guess I have to decide if it is necessary to go to all the trouble of fitting the new subframe/ sill or leave it as is. Brents photo's are inspirational but I don't have the expertise that he obviously has.
I will post an update when I finally decide!!