Quote:
Originally Posted by s_nova69
I have an ole longhorn that is really nice and original and I still use it to haul dirt and homedepot loot around so I know how ya feel. If there is just some wood broken through you could have a couple options.
1. replace all the wood and reuse the original strips and get new bolts (for easyness sake).
2. replace just the pieces that are broken and bolts as needed, to keep holes from dropping your homedepot loot on the road. (I have the dimension diagram for each piece for a wood floor somewhere, but there are threads that have that info in them here SOMEWHERE)
3. Get a ~16 Ga piece of metal to cover the rear of the bed where the holes are and it gets the most abuse. Just use some small bolts and washers to secure it after its cut. ( I have done this in the past to a 72 lwb and it worked great)
Just a few ideas for ya.
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Thanks, Phil for the ideas. For far too long, the rotting wood has been covered with a sheet of cut-to-fit 1/2" plywood. Now that I will be actively restoring the truck, I would like to perform a more comprehensive rebuild of the bed.
I need new strips as well as the angle strips too and all new hardware. Truck is not nor has never been in a salty environment but the bolts are being cut off by torch. There is just no other way!
I am thinking of cutting my own wood as I have all the necessary tools, rather than buying a wood kit. The 16 Ga piece is something I have not thought of either so I will look into adapting that idea into the rebuild. The idea I am have is really for those who like to have pretty wood beds for show but still retain some functionality.
My idea...
I have bought some Trex (TM) planks that are the right size. Trex is a great product because it will last for decades (or centuries!), comes in many colors and grain styles. It is ALOT more expensive than hardwoods but also harder than hardwoods and is tremendously more resistant to scuffing, denting and gouging. All this is great but the best part about using Trex is that I don't have to sand, stain and poly for days or even weeks. Just cut, plane, router and install.
I will give it a go and see how it all turns out. My truck will be the 'Guinea Pig' if you will. Once completed, I'll post some pitures. Since I am still in Iraq till October, I won't be able to post pics till then.
Again, thanks for the idea. Any and all input is welcome! God Bless!