Hi,

I have a 1979 F-150 that I am currently restoring. I took the bed off to repaint the frame, as it has some surface rust on it. I also took the diamond tread bumper off the back. I am not sure if my truck is a "true" shortbed, as I don't see any pre-drilled holes for mounting a receiver hitch. I somehow get the feeling that my truck was originally a long bed and someone cut the frame for a shortbed.

What are your opinions? I will try to take a pic and post in a bit.

 

Here are links to the pics.

Picasa Web Albums - cdawley4 - 79 Ford F150

Picasa Web Albums - cdawley4 - 79 Ford F150

Picasa Web Albums - cdawley4 - 79 Ford F150

 

The end of your frame looks exactly like my 78 F250 and its a 8ft. bed. The rivets and cross member look factory on yours to me. Mine has a bunch of holes drilled on the underside for a drop hitch that I wish weren't there. If your frame was originally longer, the rivets and holes to mount the bed wouldn't be where they are now. I don't think your frame has been modified.

 

If you are basing your ideas about the frame on the fact that an aftermarket hitch you bought was supposed to bolt right on, dont be worried. That frame is orginal judging by the pics. I have a Reese hitch for my 78 that was supposed to bolt right on, and I had to drill holes. I did this recently, and I also have done it on others in the past.