Buying a 68 short bed frame

[Blue18]

I need some advice.this will be My1st truck build.I'm going to look at a swb 68 rolling frame with 5 lug and disk conversion.what sort of things should I look for so I don't get ripped off.how do I check for square? Red flags? He is asking 600.I'd appreciate any help that KS in advance

[68bowtie]

make sure it rolls smoothly without any noise in the rear end. look for evidence of cuts/welds in the frame right behind where the cab goes. check that the tie rods and ball joints are all seated properly with castle nuts & cotter pins correct (68 vs 71+ steering parts have to be certain part #'s or they won't quite match). look for tweaks in the front frame horns. not 100% sure in frame straightness but i suppose you could measure the two diagonals. i would think you would notice any serious damage.

[hugger6933]

On these model it is easy to see damage, the newer trucks not so much. Take a tape and measure X measurement from the cab mounts like left front to right rear then do the opposite. If your square there then do the same from front cab mounts to core support mounts then the bed mounts as the last if they are really close your good to go on frame. You can measure wheel base center of the wheels to center of the rear axle. as long as that stuff you take a tape reading on is close your golden on the frame. Jim

[Blue18]

Ok.I'm torn between buying a cheap pieced together truck (that's why I'm buying frame) and buying this really nice custom model c10 short bed. It needs restoration but he's asking 5k.I'll upload photos soon.photo bucket is down

[68bowtie]

only you can decide what to do, but my first truck was a 68 i bought as a super nice powdercoated frame and the rest was all in pieces. it sat in my garage for years (not enough time or money). finally i got smart and sold it and bought a driver. i'm much happier tinkering with a real truck as opposed to staring at a pile of parts.

btw are you looking at the light green one with a white roof?

[SS Tim]

Title in seller's name that matches the partial VIN (last eight) stamped in the frame by the steering box. Check for back fees too.

[Blue18]

Yea he lives in Merced but it's mostly matching. And I appreciate all the help I would have not of thought to check back fees. duh!!!