ARCHIVE Testing the Waters: 60-Series Frames (1 Viewer)

[Callahan Offroad]

I have been talking to a chassis fabricator about making 40 & 60 frames, and I wanted to ask you guys if anyone would be interested in a new chassis for the 60-series? They'd run between $3000 and $3500.

Anything you'd want done differently? Ie higher wheel arches in the frame? Custom tab locations for cross members? etc.

as always any input is welcome.

 

[klinetime574]

If I were looking into this I would possibly consider making the rear section fully boxed, and each frame would need to have provisions for early or late cross-members. Other than that it needs to mimick stock dimensions. Bolt holes, shackle mounts, etc.

I wouldn't make any other modifications to the frame, just make one product that everyone could use.

 

[ILYOTA]

Maybe wishful thinking, but E-Coat would be a suggestion

 

[mongoose2231]

I'd be more interested in full cabs/ bodies. I noticed a while back that ford is making the vintage mustang bodies again. Not sure if them or some contractor they hired but that's what would really, really get my interest. Also the frames but I'm biased as I'd just purchased a parts truck with great rust free frame.

 

[mongoose2231]

Regardless, this is a brilliant idea. Even for that price!

 

[robustbambi]

id like them to come with brackets for the easy swapping of 80 series suspension/axles under there. or have all the geometry completed for links/coilovers.

 

[maat]

now that would be fxxxing epic

 

[GLTHFJ60]

id like them to come with brackets for the easy swapping of 80 series suspension/axles under there. or have all the geometry completed for links/coilovers.

This would be where the aftermarket frames are set apart from the rest. Give options for different suspension combinations:

5 link rear (FZJ80 swap)
radius arms (maybe?)
4 link rear
3 link front
stock springs
longer rear springs

 

[Callahan Offroad]

Good, these are all ideas I had. Means I'm not far off from reality (the place I have trouble finding). Bodies would be difficult and exceptionally expensive. But it's justifiable, 60's rust in exactly the same spots on every single one. There's many companies that do this for muscle cars, hell there's even a company that builds brand new 69 camaros.

I am a big fan of the suspension idea, especially since the 80's wheels are further back. I know it can be done, they do it with jeeps already.

Boxing in the rear frame is great too.

In my dream world you would have options for the frame, engine mounts and cross members. This would be pretty easy to customize.

I just keep seeing threads with disgustingly rusted frames and then people trying to fix rust. I just think if you're going to swap frames new is better.

I will look into bodies. Let know one say Ryan was not a mad genius.

 

[Big Cruiser Guy]

I like the idea of having options for motor mounts and different springs. That being said, it cost me about half that price to have my frame sandblasted, galvanized & powdercoated.

 

[Zack1978]

Good idea. I would only be interested in a totally stock frame. They could be galvanized from the start.
Also what are the legal aspects of building a new frame? Would the frame have a vin number? What is the legal liability for the frame builder?


Zack

 

[vszUnclear]

New frames would be cool, but I don't see myself dropping 3K for one.
I would buy reasonably priced replacement patch panels to fix the common rust spots.

It's great that you're floating this - parts are vanishing fast, especially those prone to rust.

 

[Zack1978]

If they really were $3,000, that would be a much better deal than dealing with patch panels.

Zack

 

[vszUnclear]

Zack, sorry I meant that I'd be interested in body patch panels.

 

[djawahir]

I spent about $1500 on blasting, galvanizing, and powdercoating my original 60 frame as well. If a new somewhat bolt-on customizable frame was an option, I probably would have gone with that. Especially, if it would be "upgradable" to newer Land Cruiser axles/suspension etc.

I'm currently in the process of trying to modify an 80 frame, suspension, and axles to fit under my 60 body. I've got both a great condition unmodified 1987 FJ60 frame and a rolling 1996 FZJ80 chassis that you could use as prototypes to measure and match, if you want to use those. But, I'd want a discount or maybe the first customized frame to roll off the assembly line!

 

[FJ40Jim]

IME 60 bodies rust or are trail demolished faster than the frames. There are very few instance where a 60 has such a pristine body that it is worth putting a frame under it. In most cases if the frame is toast, so is the body on top of it.

Just sayin...

 

[FJ60BigLou]

Its a good idea. Is anyone doing it now? What about patch pieces for the frame and body?

 

[Spook50]

My frame is still good, so nothing here that I'd see any immediate benefit from, but to throw a couple ideas into the mix: Thicker material and the addition of gussets where necessary to accommodate higher torque engines (beefed diesels are what I'm thinking) without frame twist. Galvanizing or powdercoating the complete assembly to help protect against corrosion for those where roads are salted I think would be a great addition above all else, too.

 

[Callahan Offroad]

IME 60 bodies rust or are trail demolished faster than the frames. There are very few instance where a 60 has such a pristine body that it is worth putting a frame under it. In most cases if the frame is toast, so is the body on top of it.

Just sayin...

That's an excellent point and an additional reason to pursue a new bodies.

 

[Zack1978]

Yes, the body is without question the biggest issue. I would think however that a new body would be VERY cost prohibitive!


Zack