![]() |
![]() |
#51 |
Senior Member
![]() Join Date: Apr 2008
Location: Berne IN
Posts: 3,229
|
Re: A different approach to a LWB to SWB conversion
You obviously know what you're doing- (nice job on the COE too!). All the welding drama is entertaining, but I'm excited to see how you do the rear also. Thanks for sharing with us!
|
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
#52 |
Registered User
Join Date: Apr 2015
Location: Abilene, TX
Posts: 136
|
Re: A different approach to a LWB to SWB conversion
I think that the thread title says it all. "A DIFFERENT approach...." Different is just that, different. No claims of being better or worse. It is enlightening to see another person's approach to a common task. I look forward to the rest of the build.
|
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
#53 |
Old member
Join Date: Jan 2002
Location: Liberty, & Garden City S.C. , U.S.
Posts: 19,936
|
![]()
36 years in the nuclear construction area and as a fitter I have seen every type of weld there is and by all means this guy knows what he is talking about. I'm glad to see him doing it this way. There is more than one way to skin a cat as they say!
![]()
__________________
1971 LWB Custom, 6.0LS & 4L80E, Speedhut.com GPS speedometer & gauges with A/C. 20" Boss 338's Grey wheels 4 wheel disc brakes. My Driver Seeing the USA in a 71 ![]() Upstate SC GM Truck Club 2013,14 and 2016 Hot Rod Pour Tour http://upstategmtrucks.com/ Get out and drive the truck this summer and have some fun! It sucks not being able to hear! LWB trucks rule, if you don't think so measure your SWB! After talking to tech support at Air Lift I have found out that the kit I need is 60811. Per the measurements I gave them. Ride height of truck inside spring and inside diameter of springs. |
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
#54 |
Registered User
Join Date: Nov 2010
Location: Carlsbad, CA
Posts: 1,584
|
Re: A different approach to a LWB to SWB conversion
From my point of view, the phrase "Ignorance is bliss" comes to mind. Cuz I'm really liking this guys work and I don't know all that much about the practical aspects of welding and metal work.
__________________
- Jim - My Daily Driver is a 1969 Chevrolet Custom/20 Fleetside 350/TH400/Eaton H052 4.10 and its Project thread is here http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=456911 |
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
#55 |
Registered User
Join Date: Jan 2014
Location: Sacramento,California
Posts: 696
|
Re: A different approach to a LWB to SWB conversion
I shortened my frame the other way, by cutting the long straight section under the cab. The reason most guys do it there is so they dont have to risk messing with the trailing arm geometry. when you cut it behind the cab you either have to move the trailing arm x-member forward, or shorten the trailing arms (horrible idea). the reason a pen weld is not suggested for these frames is that the metal is fairly soft, and the weld is very hard which makes it rigid and is prone to cracking. Most frames will either do a diagonal cut or an s cut like mine. if you have a vertical pen weld, I would definitely box the frame to spread the stress away from the weld . Having done mine now, i wish I would have taken your approach on the bed. lining up and welding the entire bed section was a pain.
__________________
Built not bought! My dad always tried to convince me HEI was pointless! Welding is a lot like sex, you don't have to be great with the rod as long as you thoroughly prep the surface and your good at grinding ![]() My build : 68 C10 Short Bed Conversion |
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
#56 |
Registered User
Join Date: Oct 2014
Location: Mesa AZ (Near Phoenix)
Posts: 2,302
|
Re: A different approach to a LWB to SWB conversion
I have shortened more than a couple of these frames but am no way anywhere close to any of these professional welders.
Will this frame fail, more than likely not. Looks fine to me. Would I plate it anyway, H*ll yes. Why not. If you don't want it to be seen fish plate the inside. Really though, most of these trucks lead somewhat of a pampered life once they end up in our hands. We use our Diesels for heavy hauling. OP, carry on sir, you are doing a fine job. ![]() Those pointing out potential weakness in the frame butt weld I agree. For most guys (me included) this method should not be used. Leave it alone (or to the professionals) and use a step notch. I even plate these. Cheap & easy insurance for me.
__________________
"Life is too short to drive a boring vehicle". Later, Wayne ![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
#57 |
Registered User
Join Date: Dec 2014
Location: Coal City, IL
Posts: 695
|
Re: A different approach to a LWB to SWB conversion
As I said 95% will not like my welded frame. Stay tuned for the rest of the process. I think 95% will like my bed shortening technique since I eliminate over 20' of weld.
__________________
Tony Nicholas @ Midwest Metal Masters 1953 Chevy 3100 392 Hemi w/727 & 9” Ford 1985 Chevy C/10 6.0L 4L80 373 locker |
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
#58 |
67-72 parts collector,…
![]() Join Date: Nov 2002
Location: Mid-MO
Posts: 22,698
|
Re: A different approach to a LWB to SWB conversion
Looking forward to the bed work!
__________________
Keith Convert to disc brakes. http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=444823 |
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
#59 |
Hittin E-Z Street on Mud Tires
![]() Join Date: Nov 2004
Location: Greenville, SC
Posts: 23,090
|
Re: A different approach to a LWB to SWB conversion
![]() I keep checking in and it's more bickering, I keep hoping for new pics! (and now someone else will check in hoping to see progress and see my post, and be like... a-hole...) ![]()
__________________
Jesse James 1967 C10 SWB Stepside: 350/700R4/3.73 1965 Ford Mustang: 289/T5-5spd/3.25 Trac-Loc 1968 Pontiac Firebird: Project Fire Chicken! 2015 Silverado Double Cab 5.3L Z71 2001 Jeep Wrangler Sport 4.0L 5spd 2020 Chevrolet Equinox Premium 2.0L Turbo 2011 Mustang V6 ~ Wife's ride ![]() American Born, Country by the Grace of God ![]() 1967 CST Shop Truck Rebuild! My 1967 C-10 Build Thread My Vintage Air A/C Install Project "On a Dime" Trying my hand at Home Renovation! 1965 Mustang Modifications! |
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
#60 |
Registered User
Join Date: Feb 2012
Location: Ruskin Florida
Posts: 4,560
|
Re: A different approach to a LWB to SWB conversion
Me too. I have been a lot of places and seen a lot of things. BLAH BLAH... but your work here is very nice and don't let it discourage you in any way this talk about the frame. If it cracks then you can plate it.
__________________
70 swb 4x4 406sbc 700r4 203/205 d60/14blt locker yadda yadda http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...88#post6935688 Yeller 72 Blazer 2wd conversion project "No Daggum Money" http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=550804 LS1-T56 3.73 LSD super budget build Blanco-2014 Sierra SWB https://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/...d.php?t=810350 |
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
#61 |
Registered User
Join Date: Feb 2008
Location: Des Moines, Iowa
Posts: 1,237
|
Re: A different approach to a LWB to SWB conversion
I don't drop by the 67-72 forum very often, but I'm glad i did, this is great work!!!! I like seeing another approach. Anxious to see how you tackle the rest of the box side? Mike
__________________
Instagram @HomeBuiltC10s Dads 79 GMC Build Thread http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=642929 1978 Silverado Build http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=756016 |
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
#62 |
C/10 junkie
Join Date: Nov 2010
Location: Stockton Ca
Posts: 9,093
|
Re: A different approach to a LWB to SWB conversion
Me too. Let the bed work commense
![]()
__________________
Shawn 70 LWB C10 current driver/project http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=663051 68 SWB C10 Work in progress.....SOLD http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=559520 72 LWB C10 Sold 71 LWB C10 Sold 68 LWB C10 CST Sold http://youtu.be/kbB0QrBIs9k My mom always had the best advice. It was just a tad late. After a fall that involved blood, she'd say....."Careful!" ![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
#63 |
Registered User
Join Date: Sep 2004
Location: Rancho Santa Margarita - SoCal
Posts: 1,432
|
Re: A different approach to a LWB to SWB conversion
I love outside the box thinking. You don't see it much because of the many builders before us thinking outside the box. Many of those older ideas have become the norm. Who knows, maybe in another 10-20 years 65standard's way will be the norm? Can't wait to see more.
|
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
#64 |
Registered User
![]() Join Date: Feb 2015
Location: Saint Amant, Louisisiana
Posts: 101
|
Re: A different approach to a LWB to SWB conversion
mad skills for sure
|
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
#65 | |
Registered User
Join Date: Oct 2007
Location: Spanaway
Posts: 8,451
|
Re: A different approach to a LWB to SWB conversion
Quote:
![]()
__________________
Mike. Swamp Rat build thread : http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=595019 72 3/4T 4X4 4" BDS Lift 33" BFG's |
|
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
#66 |
Registered User
Join Date: Oct 2011
Location: Watson, Louisiana
Posts: 312
|
Re: A different approach to a LWB to SWB conversion
Man!!! That is nice. I always thought there was a better way to do this. Very nice work!
I would still add fish plates, that's just me.
__________________
build thread - 1972 C/10 "Ethyl" 1974 C/10 " Paw Paw" C/10 Club Louisiana ![]() instagram - @esso_c10 @projectpawpaw |
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
#67 |
Registered User
Join Date: Dec 2009
Location: Independence Mo
Posts: 4,119
|
Re: A different approach to a LWB to SWB conversion
I'm in for how he does the rear of the bed, but I'm thinking this is where the original paint is going to get burned a bit...
__________________
My '72 short bed build. http://www.ls1tech.com/forums/conver...6-0-4l80e.html 5.3 swap into my RUSTY '71 C10 http://ls1tech.com/forums/conversion...71-c-10-a.html |
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
#68 | |
Registered User
Join Date: Jan 2014
Location: Sacramento,California
Posts: 696
|
Re: A different approach to a LWB to SWB conversion
Quote:
![]()
__________________
Built not bought! My dad always tried to convince me HEI was pointless! Welding is a lot like sex, you don't have to be great with the rod as long as you thoroughly prep the surface and your good at grinding ![]() My build : 68 C10 Short Bed Conversion |
|
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
#69 |
Stalker Nate
Join Date: Dec 2010
Location: Langley, BC, Canada
Posts: 1,556
|
Re: A different approach to a LWB to SWB conversion
Nice work and actually done by a certified welder not a backyard hack with no tickets lol Lots of pro welders/fabricators here who know what they're doing and it's great to see the work when completed and actually know the vehicle is safe. Unfortunately I bet only 25% of the trucks on the road today that are being built are done by certified welder/fabricators who really know what the hell they are doing. It's scary looking at airbagged or chopped up trucks at car shows and thinking they actually drive that on the highway when you can visibly see how bad the welds are or the alignment of everything.
This is actually a great method of doing it if you want to hide the fact it's a chopped down LWB from unsuspecting buyers, but I doubt many of the guys chopping LWBs could even pull something like this off anyways lol Can't wait to see how the bed turns out overall.
__________________
1957 GMC SWB stepper modified summer time driver 1963 Chevy Fire Dept. Command Center Van 2 ton - future food vending truck project 1965 Chevy P10 Ice Cream Truck project Instagram - TheDonutDiner FaceBook - @UscreamIscream |
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
#70 |
Registered User
![]() Join Date: Sep 2010
Location: Formerly MD and San Diego, now loving life in Arizona
Posts: 1,636
|
Re: A different approach to a LWB to SWB conversion
Fine work! Am I mistaken that this is the truck you pulled out of a salvage yard a short time ago? It is great to see high quality skills put to use in a personal setting for your own purpose and needs.
Please continue on with your build and post pictures please!
__________________
Alan 2012 Ram 3500 Dually Crew Cab 6.7 Cummins 2014 Palomino Columbus 340RK 5th wheel '69 Chevy C10 396BB |
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
#71 |
Registered User
Join Date: Oct 2012
Location: Sonora, CA
Posts: 134
|
Re: A different approach to a LWB to SWB conversion
Everybody harping about the frame, meanwhile completely missing the fact he's shortening the bed while keeping all the original paint. Coolest way I've seen this done thus far, can't wait to see the end result. Keep up the good work man!
__________________
-Vince- 67 SWB Small Window ![]() 70 CST SWB - Long Gone 72 GMC 1500 LWB - Sold |
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
#72 |
Registered User
![]() Join Date: Mar 2014
Location: Las Vegas Nevada
Posts: 93
|
Re: A different approach to a LWB to SWB conversion
What Andy said.
__________________
72 K10 |
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
#73 |
Registered User
![]() Join Date: Feb 2015
Location: WALLS, MS.
Posts: 190
|
Re: A different approach to a LWB to SWB conversion
Very nice work Tony...
![]() For all the haters: read the last sentence in Tony's post #26. PLEASE keep posting pics!!!, want to see this to the end... ![]()
__________________
Tim Yesterday is history, tomorrow is a mystery, today is a gift, that's why it's called "the present". 1971 ![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
#74 |
Registered User
Join Date: Jun 2014
Location: Glendale, Arizna
Posts: 1,642
|
Re: A different approach to a LWB to SWB conversion
I'm planning something similar, but planning on removing the rear cab mounts then do a short "Z" like you did but going to the underside of the frame towards the cab, going between the top and bottom row of rivets that hold the rear cab bracket on so that the bracket can be reinstalled into those two holes (still located as before) and then simply drill those two lower holes right through the bracket and add the two other bolts.
Still, your's will be more than strong enough. People over-look the fact that when you cut BEHIND the rear suspension cross-member on coil spring trucks that most of the stress is actually AHEAD of the rear suspension cross-member. Accelerating, braking, all goes into the cross-member. Only time the rear section of frame behind the suspension cross-member sees much stress is when you are towing. Think of it as a tow-bar LOL. Ignore the static, you are very good at what you do. ![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
#75 |
Registered User
Join Date: Aug 2012
Location: tucson,az
Posts: 274
|
Re: A different approach to a LWB to SWB conversion
I would say to go forward and progress you have to see different ideas. No one has seen this before as far as I can tell. He has done a wonderful job. Imagine how many would love to shorten their longbed but don't because of the originality of the paint. He just showed you a way with out excess heat,warping or body filler. I am excited and completely clueless how he will do the rear.
He has exceptional talent and the one thing many don't have, IMAGINATION and the nerve to do it and post it for all to see. Im no welder but this is a guy I would love to learn from. so 65standard, or Tony if that is your name, I am impressed and realize we don't know everything bpatrol bpatrol |
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
Bookmarks |
|
|