1951 Chevy deluxe 2 door

[mn51chev]

I have a 1951 chevy 2 door with 65,000 miles that I would like to customize or update the car. Right now it is totally stock with everything being original except the engine. I would like to install a chevy V8 and a 700R4 automatic transmission, along with a new rear axle. I am thinking that the best thing to do is get a new frame/suspension from a newer automobile and then install the body on that. What would be the best and easiest automobile frame/suspension to use? I would like to have new features like power steering, air conditioning, power brakes, etc. Thanks for your help!

[Bob Parmenter]

Welcome aboard.

Based on the way you state the question, I'm going to guess you've never done a frame or front clip swap before. These are both fairly complex operations that amatuers should not tackle if you ever want the car on the road again. If you have some good friends who have done this before, not just thinking they can do it, then it's a different story.

Here's my suggestion for increasing your odds of success. Check out www.chassisengineeringinc.com they have parts pre engineered to make the modifications you're proposing.

[Dave Severson]

Hey 51, there are some real nice IFS units available for the front, and a 9" on coilovers works great in the back. I have installed 2 of the IFS kits on old Chev's, they work out real nice.

[mn51chev]

Thanks for the reply. Yes this would be the first time I ever tried a swap. I have done a ground up restoration before on a 1962 corvette about 24 years ago. There is someone in my town that has a 1953 chevy that has done basically what I would like to do, so I plan to ask him alot of questions.