66-Pmd-GMC It looks like you have stirred up all kind of ideas. The bed is quite easy to put on. I wish that I would've taken pictures. I used 2 inch square stock accross the original bed mounts and extended it out further about 8 inches on each side and bolted down the front of the bed. Then on the rear I ran 1.5 inch stock across the back and bolted to the tabs on the rear mount on the new style bed.I'm only using 4 bolts because it really isn't going to haul much except for my black lab.
I really didn't take too long probably 1/2 a day.I had another person helped me lift it on the back of the truck. We took the tailgate off to help with weight.
I understand your feeling on trying to keep on a budget. I looked around and had the same luck you had on buying a bed. Not a reasonable one out there. I was able to buy mine for 250.00. The bed was straight and no rust. That is the great part about fiberglass. I appreciate everyones comments on the step shavers. They really do change the look of things.I was able to pick one up on flea bay. I think that it cost around 80 bucks plus shipping.Here is one that I really like from the 67-72 side of the forum.