To cut or not to cut ....
 

I will be starting a frame-off restoration next week on a 69 lwb. I got an awesome deal on the rig, so I could not pass it up. This is my first truck project (have done dozens of cars), so I will just be doing a 4/6 static drop and replacing almost everything I touch. I love the look of a SWB, but do not mind the LWB look either. My question is, should I shorten the frame or leave it as is? Has anyone done this and regreted the decision or wish they did something else? I have looked for a Swb frame in the Dallas area, but can only find frames with rusted out cabs, frames that are not straight or just plain junk.

Any advice and insight is appreciated.
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Re: To cut or not to cut ....
 

Sell the lwb and use to money to find a short. I almost settled for a long but finally found a short it was well worth the wait in my opinion

Re: To cut or not to cut ....
 

Thanks Del ... I have considered that route as well, but my current cab is too good to let go. I may part out out portions of mine and keep looking for a good SWB.
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Re: To cut or not to cut ....
 

I suggest you broaden your search a bit. I'll bet you can locate a decent frame not too far out. If not, dont be shy about cutting it. There is a really great article in our FAQ about the proper way to cut one.

Re: To cut or not to cut ....
 

Great FAQ write up on frame cutting.

Id find someone good with a welder to weld it though.

Re: To cut or not to cut ....
 

If you have the skill then go for it, cut it the only thing that you are going to get is a huge $$$$ in value for it...

good luck!!!!

Re: To cut or not to cut ....
 

Cut if you have the skills. Though, I have the skills and would rather do a frame swap, to save on time/work...
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Re: To cut or not to cut ....
 

The advantage to cutting it is you keep the VIN numbers on the frame, BUT I think if I ever did it I would just swap the frame out. The only problem is the DMV in certain states, and the VIN on the cab / frame not matching up. In some states it's not a big deal ..

Re: To cut or not to cut ....
 

Had a frame on a 78 cut to a shortbed and welded by a shop. It was easy and cheap. Needed a new driveshaft and brake lines, that's it. If your cab is good, I would definitely do it. Good luck finding a shortbed in good shape!
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Re: To cut or not to cut ....
 

This is all great advice! I have a place to do the welding for me with a frame table to ensure it's straight when it goes back together. If I'm cutting it, might as well C-notch it too ... :) This board has been awesome with the FAQ's and the great advice from all the members - best forum on any car/truck I have seen.