[Chevy Wrench]

Well, the Chevy 1/2 ton frames were pretty much the same from about 1937 up to 1980 or so. They are the same width and close to the same legnth. The main differances would be body mounts, engine mounts, rad. core mounts and also the way the rear end mounts. You also have to take into consideration how the front end mounts to the frame as well. My suggestion would be find a truck in decent shape. If it is a long bed, either cut down the frame or find short bed frame somewhere. This way, when you do decide to go short bed, the swap woudnt be too difficult. As far as building one from scratch, unless you have very deep pockets, I wouldnt suggest it. You would have to buy/find cab, bed, frame, front clip, suspension front and rear, hood, wiring, steering column, interior, engine, trans, drive line, etc..well you get the idea. The parts list would be very long and expensive. If you found a complete truck, either long bed or short, you have most of those items already and would cut down on cost and time dramaticly. In my opinion, this would be the best way to go. If you cant find a frame, I will have one available soon ( hopefully) from a short bed 67, cheap! However you would have to figure out a way to get it to you.