 When welding the plates in,...  When welding the plates in, tack first, recheck fitment, and then fully weld-but only do small sections at a time, as this will reduce the chances of warping from excess heat. |  While we were fortunate enough...  While we were fortunate enough to have the use of a lift, you may not be, but you'll still be left with the task of welding the bottom-side of the frame to finish up the boxing plates. If you're not a confident "on-your-back" welder, enlist the help of someone who is! |  Jeff had to work with pretty...  Jeff had to work with pretty rusty framerails-but the finished work didn't suggest that. It's highly recommended to have any areas such as this thoroughly sandblasted beforehand ... otherwise, plan on going through more grinding/sanding discs than you ever have! |
 With the boxing match over,...  With the boxing match over, Jeff could finally set his sights on locating and installing the crossmember... |  ...This step is crucial, just...  ...This step is crucial, just as pre-measuring the wheelbase is, if you want your front wheels centered in the fender openings again. |  Labor-wise, this is probably...  Labor-wise, this is probably the easiest part of the job; mentally, it can hurt. Having a fresh marker, measuring tape, square (or two), magnetic angle finder, and a dead-blow hammer can help ease the pain. |
 When the angle finders are...  When the angle finders are in harmony with each other, clamp the crossmember securely to the frame and tack in place. Don't fully weld until the spring hats are hung, though. |  Jeff had pre-marked the center...  Jeff had pre-marked the center of the crossmember with the framerails and the hats, making placement much easier prior to tack-welding. Once all the components were leveled, squared, and whatnot, they were finally welded together. |  In order to locate and attach...  In order to locate and attach the upper shock and bumpstop brackets (as well as mark and cut the frame for the steering arm C-notch), the front suspension needs to be loosely assembled and the steering rack installed. |
 And speaking of the rack,...  And speaking of the rack, if you want your steering wheel to make the same number of rotations in both directions, center it before installing! |  In the end, we decided to...  In the end, we decided to go with TCI's air spring IFS setup (which will be controlled by an Air Ride Technologies system yet to be installed). Shown here is an optional Wilwood 12-inch brake kit-but stock 16-inch wheels won't fit. |  To allow use of either 15-...  To allow use of either 15- or 16-inch steel wheels, the standard GM-style discs will be used. As for steering, since the '39 will be using a 235, we had to go with a manual rack to avoid having to mount the engine sky-high. |
 The front may be handled,...  The front may be handled, but there's still plenty more to be done-the rear suspension, engine/trans, and the remaining steering will all be addressed soon-so stay tuned for more dirty deeds. | | |