'47 model 88

1. I noticed that there was no shift pattern plate on the dash and no holes that indicate it even had one. I am going to have to replace the dash so I was wondering if I should weld up the holes that are in the later model dash or was the shift plate an "option"?

2. The front frame casting has no raised rib that runs across the front and down the sides. MY 49 model has that rib as does my 50. I know the later ones have the rib left off. Probably a cost issue.

Does anyone know if the first few of the 88's did not have the rib or is it more likely that the front frame casting has been replaced at one time?

Thanks guys.

Went the next day to take a look. Pulled up at his house expecting to see a "normal" 88. There sat an oversized 70. Couldn't believe what I was looking at. He told me what he wanted for it and I paid him so fst he didn't have time to change his mind.

The engine isn't stuck and some one had painted it with a brush several years ago and that preserved the metal quit nicely. Have some of the parts at the metal stripping place now getting them derusted.

All I need I need now is an intake/exhaust manifold setup and I can hear it run. The manifolds crumbled when I touched them.

I don't know the answers, but I can look at mine and get back to you. I'm pretty sure it does have the dash plate though. Mine is an early '48.

Enjoy, Joe