Hi;
Are the frames for a 26t the same for all body types? thanks
Passenger car frames did change in details during production, but they're basically the same and every 26/27 style passenger car body will fit. The body brackets were moved from their 09-25 positions, so earlier bodies needs some changes to fit on a 26/27 chassis. - and vice versa.
Frame numbers were introduced several months into 1926 production, by december 1925, so if it hasn't got any number it's likely an early 26 frame - or you haven't found the number yet (by the front passenger's feet, usually)
(Message edited by Roger K on January 13, 2016)
Rear crossmembers on 26 frames were of a normal U shape. Sometime, probably in 27, the U shaped rear crossmember got 'wings' that bent outward on the ends of the U (if looking at a cross section). Also, during production, I think I've read that slightly thicker steel was used for side rails and crossmembers. But to answer the question, all 26-27 bodies will mount on a 26-26 T chassis.
Initially, the production of the improved cars in the second half of 1925 used frames made of the same gauge steel as the cars built after Model T #2500, however the Ford Engineers found through a series of "sag" tests that the heavier bodies of the improved cars caused the frames to sag.
To remedy this the Ford Engineers called for a heavier gauge steel to be used. They choose to use steel of the same gauge as they were using in the TT truck frames. Most of the passenger car frames produced during the 1927 model year have the heavier frame.
Respectfully submitted,
Trent Boggess
Does anyone have the actual thickness like .XXX" for each of the frame thicknesses?
Arnie,
According to the encyclopedia: In early calendar 1926 heavier steel was used for increased strength. A letter to chassis suppliers, dated February 28, 1926, specified the metal to be the same as the truck chassis (Type “L” steel, .180-.200 inches thick).
I believe the earlier frames were made from 1/8" steel (.125 inches)
I measured one of my 1925 frames, possibly US made, to 0.150" material thickness and my 1927 frame, possibly UK made, to 0.205" material thickness. Measured with a caliper, so maybe accurate within +/- 0.004?
Tom:
Thanks for the update. I think I once measured my frame thickness and also found it "between" what those figures state. Once the snow goes I will check it again!
thank you for all the info. gary
I shoveled the snow from the front of my shed door and measured the frame thickness. I measured near where the steering column bracket is mounted to the frame. It was around .170". Not real accurate as I was in the cold using a caliper. I believe my frame is an early one as I could not find any engine number stamped on it. The frame was sanded down and painted with Por 15 so this could change the measurement thickness. But that tells me it is less than .180 and perhaps more than .125. It would be interesting if members measured the thickness of the frame of the improved models. My guess is we should find two different thicknesses based on the data mentioned.
RE 26/27 frames Except for thickness of material used, all car body styles including the roadster pu used the same frame. The mounting brackets on the frames were all in the same place.