Posted by Eric B. on Saturday, July 30, 2005 at 7:23AM :
In Reply to: Donor chassis for 1959 W200? posted by Wal in NM on Friday, July 29, 2005 at 10:46PM :
If you currently have the original frame, and body, then you need something with a 116" WB, which may be hard to find. If memory serves most of the more modern chassis are either shorter or longer by several inches.
If the original frame is not too messed up, and the springs are ok, it might make sense to put another set of axles under the original frame.
If you do decide to swap to a modern chassis, be careful of the WB, steering box location (it will need to line up with your cab), and frame shape from the side (you need mostly the same shape so the body will sit right).
If I was doing your truck, I would try the original frame, and maybe some 1980 Dodge W200 axles, 8 bolt with lockouts.
I have seen several people swap in 70s axles into a 57-60 truck, check the spring perches and see how they would fit. Changing axles is much easier then moving a body, and Jeff in TX could explain the PS conversion he did on his 58 W200 (basicly the same frame).
Good luck!
Eric