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Old 09-14-2010, 08:21 PM   #1
LT1 Burb
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How tough is it to make a shortbed

I have a longbed truck but thinking of converting it to a shortbed truck, question is how hard is it to make a longbed into a shortbed or is it easier just to swap frames and get bedsides.
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Old 09-15-2010, 12:55 AM   #3
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Re: How tough is it to make a shortbed

The level of difficulty depends on your skills and equipment, especially with shortening the frame. Shortening/welding a frame is something to be taken seriously and needs to be done correctly. I have a bunch of pics of one that I did, but I never seem to have time to do a writeup on it.

When it comes to cutting and welding the box, that needs to be done so as to minimize the body work and filler needed. The fitup of the pieces to be welded makes a difference in the final results also.Welding sheetmetal is a slow tedious process.
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Old 09-15-2010, 10:18 AM   #4
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Re: How tough is it to make a shortbed

I have been thinking about this a lot lately as there are a LOT of schlong beds out there for cheap. I was pondering doing the frame work then spending the $600 or so on a decent short bed and painting to match. I think the time saving would pay for itself in the purchase. Anyone ever tried that?
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Old 09-15-2010, 10:53 PM   #5
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Re: How tough is it to make a shortbed

You all ever see the PowerBlock episode of 'Trucks' ?


They did a 66 on there ... Check there web-site...
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Old 09-15-2010, 11:24 PM   #6
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Re: How tough is it to make a shortbed

That's like your wife asking you "how hard is it to load the dish washer?"

Well, Its as hard as you want to make it...I would have to say your skill level at welding and Measuring is your only Obstacles Measure 3 times, Cut once..
Just really keep in mind..Its just a truck....we are not building the Mire Space station here....
There are many truckin' Magazine articles on how to do the job...but don't try it with just a cheap Harbor freight welder...get a better gas mig..
just my Opinion
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Old 09-16-2010, 10:54 PM   #7
Rich 5150 69
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Re: How tough is it to make a shortbed

How you doing LT1, glad you could make it over, heres a shot of a long bed to shorrt bed, only have one photo though sorry...
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Old 09-16-2010, 11:22 PM   #8
LT1 Burb
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Re: How tough is it to make a shortbed

Hey rich, I have a SWB frame and a SWB box, but may shorten my long bed frame because I may want matching VIN's.
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Old 09-17-2010, 01:59 AM   #9
fryer1979
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Re: How tough is it to make a shortbed

Quote:
Originally Posted by LT1 Burb View Post
I have a longbed truck but thinking of converting it to a shortbed truck, question is how hard is it to make a longbed into a shortbed or is it easier just to swap frames and get bedsides.

The conversion is easy: Find a shortbed for sale somewhere at a really good deal. Call me up and I'll come throw you that ammount of cash and haul away your old longbed free of charge. No cutting or welding needed to the body, just a little to the frame and bolt on your new bed. I know it's not the most helpful answer but I could use a fresh longbed, mine is pretty hammered.
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