Custom Frame

[ClassicHauler]

Just out of curiosity, I was wondering if anyone has built a custom frame fro their truck. I have a 64 short bed and I'm one of those that values function over looks, so I want to build a heavier duty frame for my truck. I want to use rectangle box steel at least the same thickness and dimensions as the stock frame but probably a stronger steel. Has anyone done this with their truck, and how difficult is it?

[siggyfreud]

I feel like a few people in the projects and builds section have done it. Can't speak to how hard it is though. What is pushing you towards a heavier duty frame? Are you planning on running a lot of power through your truck?

[ClassicHauler]

Not so much a lot of power, but definitely more than stock, but mostly I plan on using like a truck and hauling and towing with it. I have a 5.3L for it but I am not we on putting it in, I might go for a diesel swap. Probably a duramax but maybe something different if I find something i like that's not too big or heavy. I would like it to be able to tow more than it was able to brand new, so I'm also considering different suspension setup.

[tinydb84]

Outside of towing I dont really see the need for a frame that heavy duty. Most of the aftermarket frame manufacturers are using 2x4 or 2x6 of .120 wall. Design is much more important than thickness. Same thing with the height of the frame. I did most of the modifications on my frame with a combination of .120 wall tube and .188 rectangular for my notch. If I was to do it again I would do a 2x4 back half in .120 wall.

[chevy_mike]

Honestly if you are looking for hauling and towing, a short wheelbase truck is not the way to go. The long wheelbase trucks will definitely prevent the "tail wagging the dog" issue as they are much more stable, especially under hard braking. Ever notice 3/4 and 1 ton trucks (which are designed for hauling/towing) are never short wheelbase models. It is for this specific reason.

To safely tow/haul the rated loads for a C10, there is nothing wrong with the stock frame. Just because you "beef up" you C10, doesn't mean it will legally be rated for anything more than stock ratings. The liability if in an accident for being over that rating is going to be huge. Just because you could doesn't mean you should.

Just my .02 worth... YMMV

[Bomp]

[64shortbox]

As chevy_mike stated, towing heavy with our trucks isn't a good idea. I've tried it a few times and my 64 short box and it didn't like it one bit! I added air bags to the rear inflated to 90 PSI But our 28', 8,600 LB travel trailer pushed our C-10 all over the road above 50 MPH and that's WITH an equalizer hitch & bars and WITH 2 anti sway control bars on it.

[63burban]

Nothing wrong with the original frame, it will take more than you can imagine.
We used these trucks on the farm in the 60s and 70s and worked them HARD, no problems.

[nsb29]

Originally Posted by 64shortbox

As chevy_mike stated, towing heavy with our trucks isn't a good idea. I've tried it a few times and my 64 short box and it didn't like it one bit! I added air bags to the rear inflated to 90 PSI But our 28', 8,600 LB travel trailer pushed our C-10 all over the road above 50 MPH and that's WITH an equalizer hitch & bars and WITH 2 anti sway control bars on it.

you said it pushed your truck all over the road over 50 and you had to sway bars do you mean like the tail wagging the dog the reason im asking is I plan on poling a camper w/ mine as I have pulled large loads w/ newer short beads with out a problem do you think 2 feet in the length of your truck would solve your problem thanks doug

[ClassicHauler]

this is good, to know maybe I will find a bigger truck to build for a tow vehicle. Thank you all. Have any of you noticed any excessive flex in your truck frames, from anything? I only ask because I was also considering a 4x4 conversion so I think that could be a problem there.

[TJ's Chevy]

Get yourself a 3/4 ton and you'll be in good shape. Towed almost 10K with my 64 GMC 3/4 ton and at 55 is was riding like a dream.