Matching Wood Bed and Tailgate Plans

[mkdbenn]

Just finished "Building" on paper my wood bed and tailgate for my 67 C10 (see attached pdf files). Plan on using clear Cedar for the wood even though it's on the soft side. I like the idea of this design because it will 1) Fit right into the truck as a OEM one would. 2) Will match the wood bed. 3) Allow air to pass through. Bought the truck and am currently welding in new floor pans and rockers. Will post the results of this actual bed and tailgate after Truck is ready for it. I do not have thin skin in the least. If anyone has ideas that would improve on this or blow it up as a bad idea be glad to hear from you!

[notsolo]

I like it! Where are you getting the stainless steel strips. Custom made or is this something currently available. Looks like it will be a clean smooth bed when done, or will the SS strips stand above the wood. Either way very cool idea! Did I miss what strips are made of, I assumed they were metal....

[mkdbenn]

Planed on using wood for rails. Possibly a hard wood with tight grain, although my build will use same wood for rails. Anyone with a decent table saw and quality dado blade could do a set up and have this cut out in a few hours.

[notsolo]

I think a router table would be the way to go on the strips, I made 1 that uses casters to hold the work down and up against the fence. I am thinking of adding a wood bed over the floor in my Blazer, I was going to use SS strips, but this has potential.

[GR8-68]

Looks to be a good design would certainly like to see it when it is done

And welcome to the forum

[WB72]

This makes me think of a guy who I was chatting with at a local car meet, he was asking why I chose real wood (Birds -Eye Maple) when I could have used the composite decking. Not that I would do it, but if someone wanted to, you could even use the hidden clamps that are designed for the decking.

I would want to see the final result as well.

[Metaldoc]

composite decking

[mkdbenn]

Thanks for the feedback and pics. I will be delayed until good weather allows me to get painting done as I do not have a heated garage. This is my first attempt at a restoration and really appreciate you guys can do spirit! As soon as I can I will cut out the materials for my deck and tailgate and take some pics along the way to share.

[wshattuck]

Mine has Cedar too... I like it! its something different...

[mkdbenn]

Beautiful! Makes me want to get er done. Cedar is interesting because of natural longevity and varying hues. I understand the reasons why manufactured boards are advertised as better, just doesn't have this character or beauty.