Looking for Some Advice

[Chevy527]

I just picked up a 1968 K10 Stepside. I am contemplating doing over my bed with wood but after reading on this forum and the web it seems for my circumstances it might not be worth it.

The truck would be outside from May through September every year in NY about a mile from the Atlantic Ocean. I would store it inside for the winter. Since it's exposed to the Sun and elements all summer it seems like it might not be the right choice to completely do it over and then have to touch it up every year. I don't want to do annual maintenance on the bed.

Can i do it over with some type of stain/finish that would allow me to keep it outside and not have to worry about it or is it not worth it to do it over?

[sick472]

Here is a thread that talks about using oil to preseve the wood, but it does take a minor amount of yearly maintenance...

http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=712931

I have used a Penofin oil seal on my wood bed and will retreat yearly with some type of oil to make it a fast and easy task. The Penofin that I used as a heavy grey coloring and is cumbersome to keep off the brightworks, but a plain oil would be wipe-on/wipe-off.

I think Jeff's approach in the above link would be the least amount of yearly effort, aside from painting it. Paint would be a good way to go...just not a clear coat. That stuff tends to yellow and/or peal.

Do a web search on "mar-k bed wood test" and there is ALOT of reading on what works well and what does not.

[GASoline71]

The 67-72 wood beds were painted the same color as the body of the truck from the factory. Most held up pretty well after 40 to 50 years. No reason not to repeat that.

Gary

[Willys_MB]

It depends on your feelings about the truck. If you're fine with wiping on a sealer annually, it shouldn't be a problem, but you said you don't want to do that.

The maintenance is the most important part. Keep it clean and keep it sealed. There is no way to keep wood sealed permanently without maintenance. It only takes 30 minutes to wipe on a sealer, including the time to tape up the edges. I do this on my utility trailer every year and it's not a big deal.

Depending on your drive and capabilities, you could use a synthetic decking material. I think people here have tried it before. It's not easy, but you wouldn't have to do maintenance.

[Chevy527]

Yes, I saw a video on YouTube about using composite wood. Definitely wouldn't need any maintenance but doesn't compare to the real wood.

[67C10Step]

While I was picking up my new bed box at Mar K I spoke with a guy there, I think his name was David, and he took me into the offices and showed me packaging for a new product they will be marketing soon. It will be their own topcoat for treating wood beds. He said it has taken them about ten years to settle on something for them to sell. I am hoping they release it by the time I make up my mind what direction I am going.