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Might have some parts for your '48.

I picked up a solid 48 Ford coupe today. I probably paid to much but it is nearly rust free which is rare here in the rust belt. This one came from CA. which explains it.
I have a few problems which need solving.
1) The hood doesn't close right. I know the hinges are notoriously bad but these look to be pretty decent ( I have never worked on one of these bodies so they may be junk).  Is there a trick to setting up the hinges?
2) The hood latch doesn't work. The safety latch catches but not the main latch. Do they "freeze up", or just wear out?
3) Same with the trunk latch. It just doesn't catch.
I trailered it home with a bunge on the trunk latch and a strap over the hood.
4) I am going to need a full set of stainless trim, door handles, and interior handles. Who sells the best at the best price?
5) I also need a center windshield divider and a rear pan to bumper splash apron.

I'm trying to figure out what rear axle to put in the car. I found a Granada today cheap. I considered a 8.8 Explorer but I read in the archives that the pinion is very ofset on these. I considered a S10 but haven't found the width of them yet. This will be mounted on Posies or Weedetr parallel lief kit.

Then there is the front suspension. Wow I'm lost here. Dropped tube on the original, MII, or a sub. The subs have fallen from favor but they ride so nice when done right.

I would like to run an overdrive transmission which means the X member will have to be really modified. I have seen a few kits for this. The ones that look strong really take a lot out of the center. The ones with just the lower plate don't butcher up the frame as bad but look weak to me. Help!

I found a deal on one of the baby LS1 motor and 700R4 transmissions. That motor was not my first choice but it is priced right. I'm considering a Ford in a Ford but don't know squat about the Ford drive line or parts. If I use the Granada rear it will have a high gear ratio and an overdrive wouldn't be needed. The Explorer rear would have a lower gear and the overdrive would be nice.

I have a lot of planning to do before making any purchases the way it looks. Any sugestions would be appreciated.  :?

Beck