Overlap between Zephyr / Ford suspension and steering pieces?

Hello -

As part of my restoration, I'm going to completely redo the suspension and steering system. I have never seen balljoints so worn out -- I can literally shake them like a rattle! <img src="http://www.aaca.org/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/shocked.gif" alt="" />. Anyway, I'm wondering where there is overlap with the more readily available Ford pieces.

For instance, it's my understanding that the drag link and tie rod are the same, but what about the kingpins? Also, are the shock linkages the same? In my chassis manual, I have part numbers that begin with "48" or "68" rather than "H" or "HB" (which are '36 and '37 Zephyr parts, respectively). Is this the only way to tell, or are there other ways?

I'd be interested in any insight or experience anyone has in rebuilding their steering and suspension, or even their *overall* impression about the overlap between Ford and Zephyr parts in general. For example, it looks to me like a '37 Ford gas tank (available in repro) may bolt right in.

I look forward to your comments.

To the best of my knowledge there is very little overlap between Ford and Lincoln suspension parts. As you noted when a Ford part number is listed, your friendly Ford dealer can supply you with that part. I have known for some time that 49-5l Mercury and baby Lincoln king pin bushings are the same. Since the bushing wears faster than the king pin, you usually can use your old king pins with these bushings.

Thanks for the response, Bill. I hadn't thought about that, but you're right -- it's the bushings that are designed to go first. I'm new to the whole kingpin setup, but it looks pretty simple, especially compared to more modern cars.

This is only an impression, but it seems to me that the post-War Lincolns are much more different from their Ford contemporaries than the pre-War Zephyrs are. The pre-War Zephyrs seem more "built to cost" to avoid competition with the K-models. But by '46, the K-models were gone, and there was nothing to hold back the Continentals. You can see it in the appointments and trim, and I wouldn't be surprised to see it in other places as well.

The man I bought my coupe from also had a '48 Continental convertible he was going to restore. Wow! -- what presence that car has. I would think finding and restoring all the chrome and stainless steel trim could be a real task.