Anything can be done

https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/8...swap-pics.html

 

Eight years later, it can still be found online... Yep, very nice work!!
Pics at the link:

1986 Ford F350 Stepside Truck - Four Wheeler Magazine

 

lol this topic is from like 2003....

 

This answer any questions?


Only modification needed was some pieces of 2x4's inbetween the gas tank and cross members for it to clear the first front cross member of the box.

 

......why?

 

Bought the truck with no box. Had a spare parts truck, shortwheel base, so we slaped on that short box for now.

 

I wanted to resurrect this thread to get some further inputs and ideas.

I in the process of buying an 86 F150 4x4 Extended cab, long bed.
I 'really' want this configuration in a short bed (but alas, it's been 'very, very, hard' to locate anyone selling a 'short bed' version with all the features I just mentioned.)

So, I have 2 choices

- 1) take the long bed OFF, cut the frame (to meet the short bed wheel base Specs), re-weld frame and find a short bed to to fit. Repaint, etc, etc.
(sounds easy, but I know it's a lot of work)

OR

-2) locate a short bed frame (from an extended cab model) and swap out parts.

Either solution is a long tedious process. But, if I'm going to perform a restore (with upgrades) maybe option 2 is a better way to go??

I dunno. If anyone has attempted this, all your expertise is most welcome.

Thanks
ol Oilseed

 

Why would anyone go through that much trouble for a short bed????

 

Why would anyone climb Mt Everest?
Nuf said.

 

FInding a supercab short bed frame I think would be harder than trying to find a whole truck. I would cut and weld

 

They shortened a Chevy on Trucks! Here is a link where you can view that episode.
PowerBlockTV - Video
They also cut down the bed, but if you can find a short bed you can skip that tedious step. Good luck with it.

 

Hi Diesel-Brad and Ron,
thanks for the replies.

Yes I agree, I've been searching (a lot) for an extended cab with Short bed
and I haven't located hide ner hare. I did see one (on craigslist) in Texas, but that's a long way to go for a frame (yikes).

I'll be checking with the local shops to see what they offer and quotes.
If too much, I'll try to handle this myself. I'm aware of geometries, mechanics and physics, but I've had little experience with welding and practical knowledge with such a task. I would be nice to find someone here in the Valley to offer some 'tutelage'.
It's not so much the cutting, that has me concerned, it's getting it back 'straight' and mechanically sound.

I'll check out that link Ron, could be just what I'm looking for!

I made the deal for the 86 F150 Long bed 4x4 tonight, so now I just have to go get it (in the snow) ha ha.

ol Oilseed

 

Here's the 86 F150 Extended cab, long bed 4x4, I just purchased.


Yes, that's a Chicken under the step

Side view

Before the SNOW! (outside of Spokane)

 

Oh wow! It's even brown and white, one of my favorite color combos After Brown and Tan.



I'd love to have that thing!

 

Update to the search (and most likely the answer to my inquiry).

I obtained a copy of the 1986 F series Pickup brochure (FTD-8610 8/85) 25 pages.
Nice color photo's and all the specs and trim info you would want from the 86 model year. :-)

On page 19 there is a 4x4 payload table and exterior dimensions table.
Both of these show that a F150 Supercab (4x4) with a 6.5' bed DID NOT EXIST!
It was ONLY available on the 2WD models.
So, that explains WHY I have been unsuccessful at finding this model on my internet searches.

So, the choices are clear now.
A) Buy a 4x4 Supercab, long bed, shorten the frame, find a 6.5' bed and re-attach.
OR
B) Buy a 4x2 Supercab, short bed (hard to locate), 'ADD' the 4WD axle and transfer case.

Not sure which is the easier option. Both have a high degree of difficulty.

I'm leaning to Option A, keeping the original running gear intact
seems easier and less of a headache. I could be wrong, but this is the route I'm choosing.
Cheers

ol Oilseed