Need advice on a complete "52 Panel project

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Whats up guys. I agreed to do a LOT of work on my buddy's '52 Panel. It currently has a stout 454, stock (blown) rear end/suspension and a Monte Carlo front clip. I'm still trying to figure out what year model the clip came from.

My job is to convert the rear end to a 4 bar/link 9" Ford and mini-tub to fit 12inch wide tires, stabalize the "floating" front end by either converting to coil-over or updating bushings and springs while maintaing the mildly lowered stance and re-wire the entire thing.

I want some opinions on the rear suspension. Is the Panel's rear identical to the trucks? If so I found a four bar kit from TCI that bolts right in. Will it give me a few more inches on each side? Any other kits I should look into? I'm capable of fabricating my own but would much rather buy a kit for lack of time.

I've always used Painless for my wiring needs but I'm open for suggestions.


It should be a simple project but I'm not familiar with the '50s era aftermarket. Any opinions on parts or places to research will be a HUGE help.