1941 Ford Open Drive Conversion

[fordor41]

Originally Posted by TJ

Yes it is strong enough. I've been around this stuff for a long time and I've yet to see a failure of the Ford frame using a parallel leaf spring kit. Manufacturers put a lot of engineering into what they make and factor safety into the equation The last thing they need is bad publicity and a lawsuit.

I wouldn't really say they all put a lot of engineering into their spring set-ups. Chassis Eng. sold a ton of rear springs for 41-48 Fords. I believe they used Dodge van front springs. believe because the stock spring located the axle correctly in center of wheel openning. BUT if you had a problem, you were the only one with that problem. I saw an old instruction sheet that said "these springs may ride too soft or gravel truck rough. If too stiff, shorten the leaves, if too soft add leaves". They found a set of springs inthe 70's or so that worked and they stuck with those springs until they went out of business. just my opinion.

[Ol' Ron]

I try to use rear axles with 5 on 4 1/2 bolt patters because of the vast verity of wheel sizes available. I like to run 16" x7 rims as the 13 inch tires are on their way out. Most junk yards just sell them for aluminum so a nice set of rims can be had for just a few bucks. Plan ahead.
Gramps