Ford Blitz Restoration/Rebuild

[Private_collector]

Tony, I have read through your post several times now and it has FINALLY sunk in I'm a bit worried now about the shortening of my chassis. Do I understand that the two rails narrow together as they travel back to rear portion? If so, I expect that may cause problems with either use of a correct cross member or a manufactured piece. I realise it would be essential to get it right, or issues would arise with rear springs width apart and where they must attach to the rear axle.

Originally Posted by Tony Wheeler

The chassis drawing is quite interesting Tony. I can't see too much wrong with it, except the rear spring hangers which are definitely out of alignment. That handbook is a gem Keith, I imagine you'll be hanging on to that one!

I agree with your comment regarding the chassis drawing. The rear spring hangers are crooked aren't they! That's an interesting oversight on the artists part. I have a REAL thing for symetry and that sort of thing gives the the proverbials. Things always annoy me if not square and true. Of course, sometimes that issue is unavoidable.......but that doesn't mean I have to like it.

Years ago when I was a spraypainter and working with a smash repair and restoration shop, I bought a Ford Fairlane, and after driving it for several days I remarked to one a panel beater friend that I felt the front of the vehicle was not 'square' when veiwing the guards and bonnet against the windscreen base. He took a look and declared it was fine. I was not convinced, and as a result of my whinging over next couple of weeks, he felt he had to put the car onto a measuring machine they used to chassis repair. When the car was attached correctly and measured in a number of locations, it became aparent that the front WAS definately sitting higher on one side..........by 3mm. I never let him forget that I was right. As I said, I have a thing for symetry. Not much else though.

Years later, and in another work envioronment, one bastard I worked with went so far as taping a 50c piece behind one corner of a large picture that hung in my office. He knew that picture would just about drive me insane with failing to straighten it. Every time I straightened the picture, it would move within minutes. I did this for several hours, with all the associated swearing that naturally follows such frustration. It was towards the end of the day, when I took the picture off the wall (adding blu-tack to hold in place) that I found the coin. Naturally I removed it.........and pocketed it, of course Well you didn't think I would give the coin back surely?

Anyhow, moving on. Visited the upholsterer this afternoon. Door curtains will be ready for me to take tomorrow afternoon. They were half finished when I was there, and they look REALLY good. I have asked the guys to keep the canvas color on file, because I will be wanting mud flaps, bag for storing curtains & possibly other stuff in coming months.

P.S: Tony, P.M sent. Much appreciated