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Old 07-02-2024, 10:02 PM   #1
BKCH
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Join Date: Sep 2022
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Question Advice needed!! Big 1955 F100 upgrade planning!

Hi folks!!! I'm very excited to kick off a big upgrade for my '55 F100 and wanted to ask some opinions here (I hope this thread is the right place to post - pls educate me if not!)

Some details on my truck as she stands:
- 1955 with pretty good paintwork - although needs a few touch-ups here and there. Interior and bed are both pretty nice.
- It's running a fairly stock 460 that seems in reasonable (if a little boring) condition paired to a C6 that feels like it needs some love
- The steering and brakes are not good - they pass rego but I try not to drive the truck long distances / on freeways as it is. If it's relevant it's running a transplanted Jag front end and she's setup so the front end is waaay too low to handle most driveways :|
- The chassis is clearly showing it's age. I believe it has some "flex" in it around corners and it also seems pretty obviously it's bending when putting it up on jack stands (although I'm just judging this by 'eye')
- I reckon it's worth roughly $75k as it stands...

I think I want to do a pretty serious upgrade to chassis + brakes + suspension + drive train.

The outcome I'm looking for:
- Brakes + suspension that makes it a super-easy everyday drive that I could take distances - frequently 2 hours between the Hunter Valley and Sydney but the occasional tour as well
- Chassis that is solid (!)
- Significant power upgrade
- I'll stick to automatic - keen to make this an easy driver my wife can jump in and have fun with - although a modern box with paddle auto might be interesting.
- Fat wheels at the back that will require panel work (likely into the rear bed)

I'm thinking about finding someone to do a complete chassis swap + a coyote crate + transmission... + the cosmetics to fit the new wheels and power plant... Hoping I can get away with this for somewhere around $150k but we'll see I guess.

I just want to emphasise the outcome I'm hoping for is a head-turning, easy daily driver that get's up and roars when pushed...

So... would love to ask the community for some advice:
- Am I crazy?
- Any parts of my plan that are particularly bone-headed or perhaps could be achieved easier/cheaper?
- Should I think about selling my truck and doing a ground up project? (Or buying something finished!)
- Any other advice...
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Old 07-02-2024, 10:09 PM   #2
Franco Cozzo
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Join Date: Aug 2009
Location: Centrefold Lounge
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Default Re: Advice needed!! Big 1955 F100 upgrade planning!

I reckon stick with the 460 and freshen it up, maybe retrofit an OD trans to it.

Otherwise, **** Coyote, go Godzilla:

https://performanceparts.ford.com/part/M-9000-PM73A

$20,000 USD ex shipping and import duty, but includes:

7.3L Godzilla
PCM/TCM controls package
10R140 10sp auto
Accessory drive for engine
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