How do you guys set your cabs back on??? - The 1947 - Present Chevrolet & GMC Truck Message Board Network

Gene · 07-19-2009, 07:30 AM

Ok, I dismantled my truck about 4 months ago to start the process of turning it into a 4wd, and now I have located a frame. After I get it sandblasted and painted HOW IN THE HECK AM I GOING TO GET THE CAB BACK ON????? I used my bro-in-law's deisel forklift to remove the cab, but now it's down with transmission problems. How is the most common way of getting these suckers back on the frames?

**Palf70Step** · 07-19-2009, 07:42 AM

I use a cherry picker. Supposedly 4 healthy guys can do it. I just never had four healthy guys to do it for me when I needed it done.

jackyl9999 · 07-19-2009, 08:02 AM

I lifted mine using the rafters in my shop. Then just rolled the frame under it. Think I tied the straps to the door strikers and the hinges. Not real sure about that.
You will need a few people on hand, just to man handle it. Problem with lifting it by hand is 1. there is no real good place to hold it. 2. you have to pick up and put it down several times if you have issues with the cab mounts.

Be careful.

Sammy · 07-19-2009, 08:14 AM

I have reinforced the rafters just to feel safer with a couple 8' 2 X 4's then a strap thru the open windows around the cab roof. Alignment two guys can manage this way. Once you get the cab loosely mounted install the front fenders to insure you don't have the cab crooked or too far forward etc. Then snug the cab mount bolts. 1/2 " on one side throws stuff off. Noticeable with the bumper alignment.

Shyguy · 07-19-2009, 10:03 AM

Are you putting the cab back on the frame you took it off of, if so you will not have any problem with fitment of the front clip to the cab.

If you are putting the cab on a 4x4 frame the rear cab mounts are thicker than those of the non 4x4s.

We always use the cherry picker method to remove and replace cabs, we got the idea from someone one on here. We have done 4 cabs so far and the method works great. On all 4 occasions we had the doors on the cabs.

Danny

68_Bowtie · 07-19-2009, 10:18 AM

4 of us manhandled mine on. It was bare except the windshield and back glass.

Gene · 07-19-2009, 11:30 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Shyguy

Are you putting the cab back on the frame you took it off of, if so you will not have any problem with fitment of the front clip to the cab.

If you are putting the cab on a 4x4 frame the rear cab mounts are thicker than those of the non 4x4s.

We always use the cherry picker method to remove and replace cabs, we got the idea from someone one on here. We have done 4 cabs so far and the method works great. On all 4 occasions we had the doors on the cabs.

Danny

Putting it on another 4x4 frame, I will order mounts for a 4wd. And I will use the cherry picker method, I need to pick one up anyways! Thanks for the suggestions guys...

eagleuh1 · 07-19-2009, 12:42 PM

This was on another post here earlier.
http://www.lewisfabricationdesign.com/products.aspx

hugger6933 · 07-19-2009, 05:25 PM

Two post lift ,here. It works great for cabs, beds, changing suburban and tahoe bodies. I also use it to lift and hold something while mounting it on the rotissere. Jim

JimKshortstep4x4 · 07-19-2009, 07:02 PM

Here is a picture of my son's Burb body that we were setting back on the frame. We use two 1/2 ton chain falls hooked to reenforced rafters for lifting the bodies. One person can work the chain falls but with two it is a lot easier to align the frame to the body. System works for any car or truck body.

Jim

lilred67 · 07-19-2009, 10:02 PM

i used the crane on one of my work trucks....

hgs_notes · 07-20-2009, 06:37 AM

I used an engine hoist/cherry picker with some pieces of angle iron bolted to the seat mount holes in the floor. I had my load leveler on the hoist also. The only problem was having to have a second person to help steady it while moving it around.

1956cameo · 07-20-2009, 10:19 AM

Sorry to go off topic but, Jimkshortstep4x4 you have to post some build pics of that burb over in the suburban forum for the rest of us. It looks like it is going to be gorgeous.

TEXAS 68 · 07-20-2009, 10:28 AM

Engine hoist and a 4x4 worked for me. Especally if you doing it yourself with no help.

hicktownhotrodder · 07-20-2009, 03:30 PM

Pallet forks on a skidloader. works real slick but have done the straps around the roof. now i was told that you should NEVER put the strap through the windows of the doors. am i right or just nuts?

glock35ipsc · 07-20-2009, 03:45 PM

Engine hoist here too.

arm51 · 07-20-2009, 03:47 PM

when i get to that point in my build i am going to use my backhoe i think that will get r done if you have a backhoe or a friend closeby with one

eagleuh1 · 07-21-2009, 03:53 PM

I like that idea of bolting lugs to the bottom where seats mount and using chains and your engine hoist, nice and simple. Do 4 chains and it should be pretty stable. Any idea what a stripped cab weighs?

69_C10 · 07-21-2009, 09:37 PM

Cherry picker and a 4X4 post did the trick for me. I'm a one man shop unfortunately.

AJLChase · 08-17-2009, 01:20 AM

When it's on the engine lift with the 4 x 4s is it safe to leave on the lift? Or do you find it a resting spot and set it down? Reason is, I would think if you have to do any welding on the floor supports that having it lifted would make it easier to get to, but in my mind dangerous. Thoughts?

JimKshortstep4x4 · 08-17-2009, 07:03 AM

We always use stands under a body when working under it. It is not worth the risk not to!

Jim

Chada · 08-17-2009, 08:11 AM

Four of us lifted mine off and on. Really very easy took two minutes. Had the front and back glass but no doors.

msgross · 08-17-2009, 08:21 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by AJLChase

When it's on the engine lift with the 4 x 4s is it safe to leave on the lift? Or do you find it a resting spot and set it down? Reason is, I would think if you have to do any welding on the floor supports that having it lifted would make it easier to get to, but in my mind dangerous. Thoughts?

You can lay it on its back to work on the floor, I would use some cardboard to keep from scratching/denting it up. I also made a little dolly to set it on so that I could roll it around the garage easier. Check out my build thread (midway) for the floor replacement pics..

Chada · 08-17-2009, 08:24 AM

Yes we had to replace the cab supports and reweld where the floor meets the rockers and we just turned it so we stood right in front of the cab floor which made it much easier.

JimKshortstep4x4 · 08-17-2009, 08:56 AM

Here is a pic of a cab setting on a trailer. A skid is used under the firewall to get the cab up in the air and straps are used to make sure the cab does not tip either way when working on it.

This makes repairs on the underside very easy.

Jim

07-19-2009, 07:30 AM	#1
Gene Registered User Join Date: Aug 2002 Location: Muskogee, Oklahoma Posts: 2,914	How do you guys set your cabs back on??? Ok, I dismantled my truck about 4 months ago to start the process of turning it into a 4wd, and now I have located a frame. After I get it sandblasted and painted HOW IN THE HECK AM I GOING TO GET THE CAB BACK ON????? I used my bro-in-law's deisel forklift to remove the cab, but now it's down with transmission problems. How is the most common way of getting these suckers back on the frames?

07-19-2009, 07:42 AM	#2
Palf70Step State of Confusion! Join Date: Jul 2002 Location: Gulfport, MS USA Posts: 46,819	Re: How do you guys set your cabs back on??? I use a cherry picker. Supposedly 4 healthy guys can do it. I just never had four healthy guys to do it for me when I needed it done. Attached Images __________________ Bill 1970 Chevy Custom/10 LWB Fleetside 2010 Toyota Tacoma PreRunner SR5 Double Cab - DD Member of Louisiana Classic Truck Club (LCTC) Bill's Gallery Life isn't tied with a bow, but it's still a gift. Live simply. Love generously. Care deeply. Speak kindly. Leave the rest to God!

07-19-2009, 08:02 AM	#3
jackyl9999 Registered User Join Date: Feb 2003 Location: Paragould, Ar Posts: 571	Re: How do you guys set your cabs back on??? I lifted mine using the rafters in my shop. Then just rolled the frame under it. Think I tied the straps to the door strikers and the hinges. Not real sure about that. You will need a few people on hand, just to man handle it. Problem with lifting it by hand is 1. there is no real good place to hold it. 2. you have to pick up and put it down several times if you have issues with the cab mounts. Be careful. __________________ 1970 Gmc Grande Sierra Swb 2wd LSX (LQ4/4L80e) 1990 K1500 Daily

07-19-2009, 08:14 AM	#4
Sammy Registered User Join Date: Apr 2000 Location: Bonne Terre, Mo Posts: 3,005	Re: How do you guys set your cabs back on??? I have reinforced the rafters just to feel safer with a couple 8' 2 X 4's then a strap thru the open windows around the cab roof. Alignment two guys can manage this way. Once you get the cab loosely mounted install the front fenders to insure you don't have the cab crooked or too far forward etc. Then snug the cab mount bolts. 1/2 " on one side throws stuff off. Noticeable with the bumper alignment. __________________ '69 Chevy Long Fleet & '71 GMC Short Step & Project "ODD BALL" "You can wash a pig, soak it in most expensive perfume. In the end it is still just a pig." ODD BALL build thread http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=478629"

07-19-2009, 10:03 AM	#5
Shyguy Junior Member Join Date: Dec 2006 Location: Southeast Missouri Posts: 2,436	Re: How do you guys set your cabs back on??? Are you putting the cab back on the frame you took it off of, if so you will not have any problem with fitment of the front clip to the cab. If you are putting the cab on a 4x4 frame the rear cab mounts are thicker than those of the non 4x4s. We always use the cherry picker method to remove and replace cabs, we got the idea from someone one on here. We have done 4 cabs so far and the method works great. On all 4 occasions we had the doors on the cabs. Danny __________________ '67 Chevy C-20 short stepper - build complete, 454/SM-465. '75 C-30 Single Cab DRW-350 small block/NP-435. '77 GMC-6500 Dump Truck, 427 Tall Deck. '92 GMC K-3500 Duallie, 454/4L80E.

07-19-2009, 10:18 AM	#6
68_Bowtie Registered User Join Date: Dec 2008 Location: Claremore OK Posts: 52	Re: How do you guys set your cabs back on??? 4 of us manhandled mine on. It was bare except the windshield and back glass. __________________ 68' SWB 355 CID since 1987 89' S15 4WD 4.3 08' VTX 1300R 08' Chevrolet HHR (Wife's ride) "That man right there is the best sprint car driver in the whole ---damned country!" 1974- Indianapolis- AJ Foyt pointing out Jan Opperman in the garage.

07-19-2009, 12:42 PM	#8
eagleuh1 Registered User Join Date: Jul 2009 Location: Russellville, Arkansas Posts: 1,699	Re: How do you guys set your cabs back on??? This was on another post here earlier. http://www.lewisfabricationdesign.com/products.aspx

07-19-2009, 05:25 PM	#9
hugger6933 Registered User Join Date: Oct 2008 Location: Marianna Arkansas Posts: 7,263	Re: How do you guys set your cabs back on??? Two post lift ,here. It works great for cabs, beds, changing suburban and tahoe bodies. I also use it to lift and hold something while mounting it on the rotissere. Jim

07-19-2009, 07:02 PM	#10
JimKshortstep4x4 Senior Member Join Date: Jul 2001 Location: Muskegon,MI,USA Posts: 6,026	Re: How do you guys set your cabs back on??? Here is a picture of my son's Burb body that we were setting back on the frame. We use two 1/2 ton chain falls hooked to reenforced rafters for lifting the bodies. One person can work the chain falls but with two it is a lot easier to align the frame to the body. System works for any car or truck body. Jim Attached Images __________________ 1971 Shortbox step side 4x4, 350 sbc, 3:07 rear end 1965 Impala SS 400 sbc, Muncie rock crusher 1966 Impala SS 396 bbc, TH 400 1969 El Camino, 350 sbc, TH 350 1971 Snowplow built on a Blazer frame 1972 GMC Short bed, stepside, TH 400, 427 BBC

07-19-2009, 10:02 PM	#11
lilred67 Senior Member Join Date: Mar 2005 Location: weatherford,texas Posts: 1,003	Re: How do you guys set your cabs back on??? i used the crane on one of my work trucks.... Attached Images

07-20-2009, 06:37 AM	#12
hgs_notes GEARHEAD Join Date: Aug 2003 Location: MN Posts: 6,122	Re: How do you guys set your cabs back on??? I used an engine hoist/cherry picker with some pieces of angle iron bolted to the seat mount holes in the floor. I had my load leveler on the hoist also. The only problem was having to have a second person to help steady it while moving it around. __________________ If no one knows what you're doing, they can't tell you you're doing it wrong HG's Dream Car Build - Shelby Cobra Kit Build your own adjustable track bar 71 Long Fleet C/10 72 Jimmy 4x4 (Junkyard Jimmy) HG's Plow Truck '78 K35 Dually Bigass Farm Truck HG's thread of miscellaneous stuff

07-20-2009, 10:19 AM	#13
1956cameo Registered User Join Date: Apr 2008 Location: Angleton, TX Posts: 2,219	Re: How do you guys set your cabs back on??? Sorry to go off topic but, Jimkshortstep4x4 you have to post some build pics of that burb over in the suburban forum for the rest of us. It looks like it is going to be gorgeous.

07-20-2009, 10:28 AM	#14
TEXAS 68 Vortec in the works Join Date: Nov 2003 Location: Spring,Texas Posts: 735	Re: How do you guys set your cabs back on??? Engine hoist and a 4x4 worked for me. Especally if you doing it yourself with no help. Attached Images __________________ 68? It's all figured out untill you get it apart. Is it Sunday yet??? 68 Project 68 SWB frame off/98 Vortec with stock FI/power everything. 95 ECLB 2500 with 346,000 on the clock(the original HD) 99 Lesabre-wifes ride 08 Crew Cab LTZ-All Mine 89 SWB 5/7 drop-Son's first ride.

07-20-2009, 03:30 PM	#15
hicktownhotrodder Rollin Coal Join Date: May 2009 Location: Winnebago Illinios Posts: 131	Re: How do you guys set your cabs back on??? Pallet forks on a skidloader. works real slick but have done the straps around the roof. now i was told that you should NEVER put the strap through the windows of the doors. am i right or just nuts? __________________ I have three letters to all these import guys: God-Made-Chevy 04 GMC Sierra 2500HD Duramax 1972 Chevrolet C-30 Dually Pickup stock? 350 SM465 four speed 1977 GMC K-35, TH-400, 4X4 450 horse 454(dad's) 1993 Dodge cummins 5-speed DEAD!!

07-20-2009, 03:45 PM	#16
glock35ipsc Next project: 1970 K10 Join Date: Feb 2004 Location: Fort Collins, Colo 80524 Posts: 6,685	Re: How do you guys set your cabs back on??? Engine hoist here too. __________________ *Bob* 1970 Chevy K10 LWB "Goldie" 350/TH350 *next project!!* 1981 Chevy C10 LWB 355/TH350 - My son's truck LS SWAP FORUM! Tons of LS swap info here! PLEASE CLICK HERE TO SUPPORT THE GREATEST BOARD ON THE NET! CLICK HERE FOR THE FAQ INDEX by KRUE



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07-20-2009, 03:47 PM	#17
arm51 beer me Join Date: Jun 2009 Location: west frankfort illinois Posts: 129	Re: How do you guys set your cabs back on??? when i get to that point in my build i am going to use my backhoe i think that will get r done if you have a backhoe or a friend closeby with one __________________ 1969 c10 currently on hold because of a darn f**d 1986 f150 1986 silverado-my dads truck that i'm fixin up ill keep my freedom my guns my money my religion and you can keep your CHANGE-hank williams jr

07-21-2009, 03:53 PM	#18
eagleuh1 Registered User Join Date: Jul 2009 Location: Russellville, Arkansas Posts: 1,699	Re: How do you guys set your cabs back on??? I like that idea of bolting lugs to the bottom where seats mount and using chains and your engine hoist, nice and simple. Do 4 chains and it should be pretty stable. Any idea what a stripped cab weighs?

07-21-2009, 09:37 PM	#19
69_C10 Doing it my damn self..... Join Date: Jan 2008 Location: Asheville, NC Posts: 82	Re: How do you guys set your cabs back on??? Cherry picker and a 4X4 post did the trick for me. I'm a one man shop unfortunately. __________________ Mark... *Project 69 Stepside*...http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=290761 69 C10 Stepper - Current Build 94 Silverado - Driver 05 Hummer H2 - Unique Whip

08-17-2009, 01:20 AM	#20
AJLChase Registered User Join Date: May 2009 Location: Lincoln, NE Posts: 322	Re: How do you guys set your cabs back on??? When it's on the engine lift with the 4 x 4s is it safe to leave on the lift? Or do you find it a resting spot and set it down? Reason is, I would think if you have to do any welding on the floor supports that having it lifted would make it easier to get to, but in my mind dangerous. Thoughts?

08-17-2009, 07:03 AM	#21
JimKshortstep4x4 Senior Member Join Date: Jul 2001 Location: Muskegon,MI,USA Posts: 6,026	Re: How do you guys set your cabs back on??? We always use stands under a body when working under it. It is not worth the risk not to! Jim __________________ 1971 Shortbox step side 4x4, 350 sbc, 3:07 rear end 1965 Impala SS 400 sbc, Muncie rock crusher 1966 Impala SS 396 bbc, TH 400 1969 El Camino, 350 sbc, TH 350 1971 Snowplow built on a Blazer frame 1972 GMC Short bed, stepside, TH 400, 427 BBC

08-17-2009, 08:11 AM	#22
Chada Registered User Join Date: Jun 2009 Location: Midlothian, Virginia Posts: 56	Re: How do you guys set your cabs back on??? Four of us lifted mine off and on. Really very easy took two minutes. Had the front and back glass but no doors.

08-17-2009, 08:24 AM	#24
Chada Registered User Join Date: Jun 2009 Location: Midlothian, Virginia Posts: 56	Re: How do you guys set your cabs back on??? Yes we had to replace the cab supports and reweld where the floor meets the rockers and we just turned it so we stood right in front of the cab floor which made it much easier.

08-17-2009, 08:56 AM	#25
JimKshortstep4x4 Senior Member Join Date: Jul 2001 Location: Muskegon,MI,USA Posts: 6,026	Re: How do you guys set your cabs back on??? Here is a pic of a cab setting on a trailer. A skid is used under the firewall to get the cab up in the air and straps are used to make sure the cab does not tip either way when working on it. This makes repairs on the underside very easy. Jim Attached Images __________________ 1971 Shortbox step side 4x4, 350 sbc, 3:07 rear end 1965 Impala SS 400 sbc, Muncie rock crusher 1966 Impala SS 396 bbc, TH 400 1969 El Camino, 350 sbc, TH 350 1971 Snowplow built on a Blazer frame 1972 GMC Short bed, stepside, TH 400, 427 BBC

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