Body Jig or Frame

[PatrickGrant]

I'm getting ready to start body work on my 28 closed cab. The cab will need lower patch panels welded in and body adjustments. I would like to make a jig for the cab to set on instead of using a complete frame for ease of access. Is this a wise thing to do or should I go with a complete frame ?

[BRENT in 10-uh-C]

Personally, I believe that many people get caught up in spending more time building jigs & fixtures for a one-time project, which slows the overall progress down. If you know your frame is straight, use the frame. (If your frame is bent, you need to straighten it anyway)

If you have access to a lathe, part some tubing about 6.00" long to use as risers and then bolt the body to the frame using All-thread rod and the tubing as spacers.

[PatrickGrant]

I don't have a Lathe but, I will build spacers and block it up on the frame. Time to getter done ! Thanks Brent

[Midwest Tin]

My frame is good. So I made some 7/16" blocks to use between the frame and body subfloor to clear the frame rivets. The method came from Don Swofford who is building a 180A. Works Great! Jim

[hotrodalley]

I built a couple carts on casters that I use to roll around an entire frame, partial frames, or a complete rear end with torque tube. Very handy. I use unistrut to hold down the frame and it creates a great work surface. I am working on a cabriolet floor pan and have a partial frame that I have mounted on the cart. I have been able to assemble the wooden rails and sheet metal pans while bolting down the components on the frame with original body to frame mounting bolts. Maybe overkill for a single project.

[marathonboats]

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You have nice project, hopely work correctly

[PatrickGrant]

Hotrodalley, I like it ! Looks like the perfect height for a 5 gallon pail chair and to weld patch panels in. It's a quick make and I have everything to build it lying around. Thanks

[Cool Hand Lurker]

I have a spare AA truck frame that is heavy and does not twist so it is a firm platform to use to clamp down a project for welding. The existing holes can be used to clamp down a truck or pickup cab and even a coupe or sedan if you drill a couple more holes. The project will not move. Put it on jack stands or casters to get it to working height.

[Terry, NJ]

Don't overlook the handiest thing most people have on their scrap heaps, old bed rails! Flexible. but strong. Not your usual mild steel! Easy to weld! And Cheap and available!
Terry

[hotrodalley]

PatrickGrant.I have strategically placed chairs around the frame so I can sit with my coffee and ponder my next move. At my age, I am trying to see how long I can make the project last !

[PatrickGrant]

I'm excited about getting my project underway so I can do some serious pondering !! I'll have to find some comfy chairs and another coffee pot too !

[RockHillWill]

Just as a different viewpoint, I would offer this input. I am a jig and fixture lover, so I might be more inclined to take a different look at this than some. I gathered two similar frames that were straight and used one to do all the chassis work and I made a roll around cart for the other one. By doing this, it was MUCH easier to do quality work on the frame without the body in the way, and I was able to do all the body and metal work, painting, etc. on the roll around cart saving a HUGE amount of time, as I was able to do frame and chassis work without the body being in the way, and do a much more detailed approach to the body without the frame being in the way, and I was able to avoid the preparation and 'un-prep' work and was able to continue working on the chassis while the body work was underway. I am absolutely convinced that the total time was noticeably less time consuming and I was happy with the results. I have done this on four occasions, with two projects ending up quite well.

Do what ever you think is best for you and your shop room and your fabricating skills.

HotRodAlley: That is very nice work you have done there, you can be proud! There are those of us that enjoy the journey as well as the destination, and I have learned over the years that if someone can't hear the music, they think the dancer is 'mad'.

[Corn Fed]

I have a frame that was professionally jigged so I know it is square and right. So far my brothers and I have used it to put 3 bodies together. I trust it more than any jig. Plus, it can someday be used as an actual frame.