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Old 10-11-2017, 11:03 PM   #1
allytle
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Wheelbase:How Short is too Short?

I have a 63 LWB I'm doing a flatbed dually with. I've been thinking of notching the back but maybe shortening it up too since I'm not running a bed and I won't need to match it up to anything. I've got it mocked up at about 113" and I like it. I've read 110" to 120" is used for hot rods and stuff so it seems reasonable. Any thoughts? Stupid idea? Any problems you think I might run into with handling?
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Old 10-12-2017, 05:34 AM   #2
andrewmp6
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Re: Wheelbase:How Short is too Short?

Do you want to tow with it or more just a truck used ?
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Old 10-12-2017, 10:47 AM   #3
BR3W CITY
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Re: Wheelbase:How Short is too Short?

For a dual wheel truck (assuming you want to tow or load it) shorter = less stable.

A short truck with a lot of weight on it will have a harder time controlling a load under braking.
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Old 10-12-2017, 11:22 AM   #4
allytle
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Re: Wheelbase:How Short is too Short?

Thanks guys! I don't plan using like a truck. I'm building a little novelty hot rod for my business. I'm going to drive it like a car.
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Old 10-12-2017, 12:20 PM   #5
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Re: Wheelbase:How Short is too Short?

also the shorter the wb the ruffer the ride..
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Old 10-12-2017, 12:32 PM   #6
Jstrumpf
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Re: Wheelbase:How Short is too Short?

does anyone have a link or place of a wheel base chart for short bed?? I believe short bed should be 115in but I thought I remember seeing a chart some where with precise measurements. thanks
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Old 10-12-2017, 01:39 PM   #7
allytle
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Re: Wheelbase:How Short is too Short?

I believe a SWB is 117", a long is 127", and a one ton is 133". So 113" is just a little shorter.

I'm building a little downtown hot rod. I'm laying frame too so it's not a practical truck it's to get attention. So I thought while I was notching it I could shorten it at the same time. I'll be building a rear end anyway.
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Old 10-12-2017, 04:03 PM   #8
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Re: Wheelbase:How Short is too Short?

I have a 73 P10 stepvan and the wheelsbase is 102”. So I’m thinking that Chevy designed a “half ton” with 102” and used for hauling stuff. Can it really be all that unsafe and unstable...maybe not
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Old 10-12-2017, 04:27 PM   #9
PDW HOTRODS
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Re: Wheelbase:How Short is too Short?

I would make it short bed length. You never know if you come across a good bed someday you may change your mind. with a flatbed you probably would never notice a few inches either way.
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Old 10-12-2017, 05:46 PM   #10
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Re: Wheelbase:How Short is too Short?

AFAIK the only vehicle (full frame truck) that is shorter than the 2dr S10 Blazers, is the Postal Jeep. I was able to tow single axle motorcycle trailers etc, so its not "unsafe" at small loads. I think it being a dually one ton is what throws people. If you aren't using it as a one ton, then so as short as you want. Heck, guys drag race Topolino's and Anglias, and they are TINY>
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Old 10-12-2017, 11:20 PM   #11
allytle
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Re: Wheelbase:How Short is too Short?

Quote:
Originally Posted by BR3W CITY View Post
AFAIK the only vehicle (full frame truck) that is shorter than the 2dr S10 Blazers, is the Postal Jeep. I was able to tow single axle motorcycle trailers etc, so its not "unsafe" at small loads. I think it being a dually one ton is what throws people. If you aren't using it as a one ton, then so as short as you want. Heck, guys drag race Topolino's and Anglias, and they are TINY>
I just checked out your YouTube channel. I've used a couple of your videos in the past to help me. Thanks for sharing.
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Old 10-14-2017, 01:56 AM   #12
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Re: Wheelbase:How Short is too Short?

Quote:
Originally Posted by allytle View Post
I just checked out your YouTube channel. I've used a couple of your videos in the past to help me. Thanks for sharing.
Thanks for watching!
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Old 10-20-2017, 01:19 PM   #13
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Re: Wheelbase:How Short is too Short?

frame specs
lwb and swb
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Old 10-20-2017, 01:44 PM   #14
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Re: Wheelbase:How Short is too Short?

The 1969-1972 blazers are 104" and people tow with them all the time.

Good luck, Rg
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