Ford M-H LP3A 1941 chassis = CMP Ford chassis

[cliff]

Just a question on the chassis of the Aust. LP3A 1941 chassis and it's comparison with the CMP Ford 4X4 Chassis.

Apart from the wheelbase was there much difference in cross-members etc. between the 2 vehicles?

I know the M-H front axle was centred to the LHS whereas the Ford CMP front axle was centred to the RHS but other then this and the fact the transfer case was centred differently are there any other major differences.

I am going to be preparing masters to do a 1/35scale kit of this unique Aussie vehicle and want to get it as accurate (within Reason) as possible. Kit will be probably resin with a few PE details but I still have to follow a few leads on this.

Thanks to Jack Neville who has already supplied a lot of information to me.

[Keith Webb]

The MH used the 1941 truck chassis which was not a CMP - I think everything from most (if not all) of the cross members to the spring hangars was different. Will have to check the parts books.

[cliff]

Thanks Keith. The reason I asked this question was because I think the gearbox mount on the M/H is similar to the Ford CMP where the back of the gearbox is bolted to it.

As I say I only think this from a couple of early photos of M/H conversions and not necessarily the LP3A.

Again thanks for any info at all

[Tony Wheeler]

Originally Posted by cliff

I think the gearbox mount on the M/H is similar to the Ford CMP where the back of the gearbox is bolted to it.

I believe you're right Cliff, and I'm pretty sure the engine crossmember is similar too. Perhaps these crossmembers were associated with 4WD conversion, for increased frame rigidity. However I'm not familiar with the commercial chassis range so it's possible they were used more widely. The CMP chassis frame was standardized throughout the range, and as Keith says it shared no commonality with the commercial chassis frame.

Look forward to seeing your LP3A model, a very worthwhile project indeed.

Flathead_Frame_1940-46truck.jpg img154.jpg

[jack neville]

Sent you some chassis layout drawings and photos Cliff.

You are correct Keith. It uses a standard Ford civvy chassis but with extra cross members for the transfer case and mods to strengthen the top of the transmission xmember to compensate for a section removed on that xmember to allow clearance for the front prop shaft. The chassis rails are double channel for most of their length. Great rust breeders.

[cliff]

Originally Posted by jack neville

Sent you some chassis layout drawings and photos Cliff.

You are correct Keith. It uses a standard Ford civvy chassis but with extra cross members for the transfer case and mods to strengthen the top of the transmission xmember to compensate for a section removed on that xmember to allow clearance for the front prop shaft. The chassis rails are double channel for most of their length. Great rust breeders.

got them Jack and they certainly explain every thing a lot more clearly now. Now the work can begin