This weekend i plan on pullin the bed off my 96 f150 inline 6 short bed to fix a fuel issue and a couple other things. I tried to remove and use the current bolts but found it easier to just cut them off and get new. What kind of bolts should i be getting to replace them? Reg carriage bolts and nuts? or is there something special that would make this job easier. Let me add that one of the bolt holes is located on top of the fuel tank so that bolt is going to be the death of me. Is there a clip i can put around the nut so it stays in its place? Input for the easiest replacement of bolts with the whole not being able to get a wrench in there thing in mind. Total bolts : 4 Thanks guys!

 

I use reg hexed head bolts and lock nuts.

 

is there any way to get the nut to be held on the frame with something or should i just use the hex head and then use a reg box wrench on the nut and let it go against the frame as leverage? if that makes sense

 

Use 2 people. One under the truck w a socket, extension, ratchet.
One on top w/ an impact gun

 

Well thats the issue. the underneath part is blocked by the gas tank. and we are trying to avoid dropping the tank cause its old and dont want to run the risk of leaks

 

If you use a socket and extension , you can reach between the frame and the gas tank

 

Right Right. Well i think i figured out a good way to do it and i hope it works. I shall let you know after im done how it all went.

 

All went well!! It took a little bit of time getting the old bolt ground off. But after it was all complete it went back together perfectly with out and issues. Bed bolts worked great! i used a hex head and a washer in the bed and nut and lock washer under to the frame. It worked perfectly. Thanks for the advice.!

 

Glad it worked out for ya

 

Sorry to bring this back up.... I am curious as to the specs on the hex bolts you guys are using? I already have my old ones off and now I'm looking for a replacement. Thanks in advance.

 

I use grade 8 just because they are rust resistant , while grade 5 go to hell in no time

 

Same. if youre wondering length i dont remeber lol. But i do remeber the two fronts by the cab are longer then the rest.

 

Thanks. I am just curious but has anyone ever used bolts from a 99-2011 super duty? I have searched but cant find out why they wouldnt work. Thanks again.

 

My brother has used them in 2 different trucks. I dont recommend them. The clips tend to snap then your are left torching the nuts off and they are STUPID expensive

 

I think I am going to give them a shot then. I found some on ebay and they are going for pretty cheap. I was mainly worried about the length of them, but I am just going to go for it. Thanks agian and sorry for hijacking this thread.