Putting a short bed on a long bed frame

5566 Views 12 Replies 8 Participants Last post by SOFA-KING BIG, Jan 11, 2004

cj7jeep81

Discussion Starter · Jan 9, 2004

I am beginning building up my '78 stepside truck. I am getting ready to tear down to the frame, swap the axles and engine, and build it back up. I am looking at buying a 3/4 ton donor truck to do this and got to thinking about swapping bodies instead of running gear. What it be worth it to shorten the frame and use it instead of my 1/2 ton frame?
If I did this, I imagine I would have to build new mounts for the bed, but am not sure.
Would there be value in doing it this way, or would it just be a major headache? I know I would end up with a stronger frame, but are there other benefits as well?

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SOFA-KING BIG

· #7 · Jan 10, 2004

Here's another idea....
What about using a K5 frame?
It was shortened right from the factory!
Same stuff as 1/2 or 3/4 ton , And it has a 109 WB.
That's 10" shorter than a std pick-up.
Mounting it up was easy. And the mounts work, except...
The mount at the rear of the cab is lower for a blazer,
So you'd have to build a extension/ x-brace from the body mounts to the cab mounting holes.
Just another easy idea... :grinpimp:

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SOFA-KING BIG

· #13 · Jan 11, 2004

I think you found the answer to your question.
No advantages to using the 3/4 ton frame vs 1/2 ton.
The best way to see the actual differences between frames is to compare them first hand. Spend a little time in a boneyard, bring a tape measure & take notes.
If your serious and want to switch frames you have lots of options that will work, visually compare then ask some questions and use what 'you' think will work best.
Best of luck with your project!

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