Converting a 3600 to 3100

[Mains52]

Can anyone post a project link to a build where someone has shortened 3600 bed sides and running boards? I know there's some out there I just cant remember the thread names.
Thanks Dudes

[dwcsr]

its doable, its a lot of work, I would suggest find a 3100 frame roller and a bed and save your self about 200 hours of work. With the amount of S10 swaps frames are fairly available.

[Mains52]

Originally Posted by dwcsr

its doable, its a lot of work, I would suggest find a 3100 frame roller and a bed and save your self about 200 hours of work. With the amount of S10 swaps frames are fairly available.

I am already purchasing a frame next week. I just want to see a build thread of someone else doing it also. I know I have seen one on here before. Guess i'll just start clicking through them.

[mr48chev]

One suggestion. If you have a nice pair of 3600 running boards offer to swap for an equal pair of short bed running boards. That might save some work and make two people happy.

One of the big differences between a 3100 and a 3600 is that the 3100 frame widens out starting about a foot or so behind the cab while a 3600 frame runs straight back like later trucks do. Not a big deal but the bolts that hold the back of the bed down to the frame will be in a different spot.

I've seen a lot of guys shorten the 9-1/4 inches and move the front post back and spot weld it back on and remove the middle post. Not a big deal but you do have some body work involved where you removed the second post. I'm thinking that there is also a bit of extra length behind the fenders and some guys adjust that while others leave it as is That isn't real noticeable unless you park next to some trucks with stock short boxes so personal preference comes into play there.

[joedoh]

chaddude on here did it by buying short running boards and taking the ~10 inches out of the bed. he didnt put the stake pocket back in, and I think it looks fine for a cruiser.

IMG_7927 by Joe Doh, on Flickr
IMG_7928 by Joe Doh, on Flickr
IMG_7929 by Joe Doh, on Flickr

[thunderjet]

Have shortened 3, 3600 boxes to 3100 length. Take the 9 1/4" from behind the second stake post going forward. This leaves the front stake in its original location. You can shorten the running boards by cutting the straight area below the splash apron, the grooves will match up. Cut the splash apron in the middle, it will also work fine.

[Hampshire]

X2 on what thunderjet says. Check my build thread. The shortening took part of a morning to do. Build out was smooth with Mar-k parts.

[Mains52]

Thanks Guys

[whitedog76]

Before you go about cutting up running boards, I bet you could find someone willing to buy them. Since 3600 boardsare about as rare as hen’s teeth.

As far as the chassis goes, I bet you could find a 3100 frame for little or nothing.

Just my .02 worth.

[Hampshire]

Before you go about cutting up running boards, I bet you could find someone willing to buy them. Since 3600 boards are about as rare as hen’s teeth

...good point. I sold mine quickly & had money left over when I bought new ones

[whitedog76]

I know someone within driving distance of Knoxville, IL.........

[Mains52]

Originally Posted by whitedog76

I know someone within driving distance of Knoxville, IL.........

Nice to see people from my neck of the woods on here Whitedog. I worked at the CAT tech center/proving ground for about 8 years. I am somewhat familiar
with the area. So do you just know someone or do you know someone with parts for sale? haha

[whitedog76]

Originally Posted by Mains52

Nice to see people from my neck of the woods on here Whitedog. I worked at the CAT tech center/proving ground for about 8 years. I am somewhat familiar
with the area. So do you just know someone or do you know someone with parts for sale? haha

I know a potential buyer of some 3600 boards.... LOL

Anyhow, It's kind of funny but I'm doing contract work at the Tech Center right now. Did some work at the proving grounds last year too.

Chris

[Mains52]

Originally Posted by whitedog76

I know a potential buyer of some 3600 boards.... LOL

Anyhow, It's kind of funny but I'm doing contract work at the Tech Center right now. Did some work at the proving grounds last year too.

Chris

Wow small world. I am probably cutting the 3600 boards down. If I don't Ill get one here and holler at ya.

[abig84]

Originally Posted by whitedog76

I know a potential buyer of some 3600 boards.... LOL

Anyhow, It's kind of funny but I'm doing contract work at the Tech Center right now. Did some work at the proving grounds last year too.

Chris

yeah ive had my 3800 for about a year and casually look for passenger side running board and have yet to ever see one. if you want to sell them post up a price. my passenger side is kinda sketchy but i think will be ok for the time being but would probably buy another set if the price was right

[whitedog76]

Good luck.

[Mains52]

Originally Posted by whitedog76

Good luck.

Thanks