How to Build a '32 Rat Rod
Building a rat rod from a '32 Ford is a practice that would be looked down upon by hobby purists due to the relative scarcity of the 1932 Ford. Of course, that's the whole point of a rat rod -- that you step away from conformity and enjoy your vehicle for what it is. The customization and building of a rat rod isn't about what you take away from a well-restored vehicle. Instead, it's a practice of putting as little as possible back onto a non-operational vehicle to make it roadworthy and safe.
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Instructions
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Determine the road worthiness of the car. Because the particular vehicle being looked at is a 1932 Ford, check that the frame is solid and the brakes and engine work. If these work well, the car is in fair shape and can be safely turned into a rat rod.
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Repair or replace the Ford's brakes. You can choose restoration brakes, which will give you drum brakes in the front and rear of the car or you can choose upgraded disc brakes. These are the best choice for '32 Fords that will have new engines installed. Original 1932 Fords did not exceed 100 hp, even if they were fitted with the flathead, V-8 engine. If you are increasing the weight and power of the vehicle by adding a late-model V-8 engine, you must upgrade the brakes to retain the safety of the car.
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If the car has its original paint in place and has a fair amount of patina without rust, then you should not change it. '32 Fords came, for the most part, in black, and over time, the paint when exposed to the elements would become slightly coarse or would chip away. A rat rod depends on this patina for its characteristic look, so avoid attempting to repair it unless the body is badly damaged by rust.
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Rebuild the car's original engine using an engine rebuild kit or install a new engine from a junkyard. For a rat rod, the type of engine does not matter, as long as it runs. V-6 and V-8 engines are common, but some builders use 4-cylinder engines, as well. While reworking the engine, install an updated wiring harness. This will help prevent problems, such as fires or non-starting vehicles due to corroded wiring.
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Install a basic interior in the car. If the car still has its original interior in good shape, leave it alone. If, however, there is evidence of rodent infestation, fumigate the interior to remove any living creatures, then remove any nests you might find in or around the dashboard or in the seats. Recover the seats with an inexpensive comforter or blanket.
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References
- Photo Credit Christopher Furlong/Getty Images News/Getty Images
