Bed rail angel
Logistics Pro
Joined: Nov 2011
Posts: 4,685
Likes: 80
From: Northville, MI
Of course it would also help if you told us the year and model of your truck. Suggest that you add that to your signature through the USERCP upper left menu. Also your location helps too.
Laughing Gas
Joined: Jan 2009
Posts: 914
Likes: 71
From: Lavergne, Tn.
I have a digital ANGLE gauge and made numerous readings on a bed I have here in the shop...readings range from 48.5 to just shy of 50 degrees.
Your 47.5 measurement should be just fine...no rocket science in this dimension, even where the top flange bolts to the header panel is not critical since the bed side will bend to match the angle on the header panel.
Your 47.5 measurement should be just fine...no rocket science in this dimension, even where the top flange bolts to the header panel is not critical since the bed side will bend to match the angle on the header panel.
Logistics Pro
Joined: Nov 2011
Posts: 4,685
Likes: 80
From: Northville, MI
I just measured mine and I agree with Ross & Denny. 40.5 degrees - Denny's gauge at 40.4 may be more accurate than mine.
Finally don't forget that this metal is 16 gauge not 18. The thickness on Drew's truck looks most substantial.
What did you use Drew?
Finally don't forget that this metal is 16 gauge not 18. The thickness on Drew's truck looks most substantial.
What did you use Drew?
Laughing Gas
Joined: Jan 2009
Posts: 914
Likes: 71
From: Lavergne, Tn.
I used 14 gauge. I also used 14 gauge to build the tailgate. I don't recall the exact figure but the tailgate weighed about 5-6 pounds more than the stock tailgate.
Mountain Pass
Joined: Jun 2011
Posts: 133
Likes: 0
From: Shelton Nebraska
I made my own box for my 56 and saved a lot over a new box. I had a box to use for measurements and made mine to look like an original but did not try to make it exactly like the original. I used thin wall tubing for the roll on top. I just welded it on then dressed it down with a grinder. It is reject shock absorber tube from the junkyard. I made the stake pockets from square tube with a piece of rectangle tube across between the pockets under the box. We sealed the edge of the tubing to the side with seam sealer before painting. I drilled holes and plug welded the pockets to the sides. I also made a 10 gauge floor. I plan to put wood over it in the future. I also made my own tailgate and latches. I bought a set of tailgate supports that replace the chains.I used a piece of rectangle tube for the top of the front and welded it solid then just used a flat sheet for the front. By making my own box I was able to incorporate several custom touches I wanted. Mine did turn out heavier the a stock box but that way you do not have to lower the rear as much. 
Laughing Gas
Joined: Jan 2009
Posts: 914
Likes: 71
From: Lavergne, Tn.
It was done on a hydraulic metal brake. The discoloration is from the fact that it is hot rolled steel, which unless you like removing mill scale, I don't recommend. Use cold rolled and save yourself some time.
FTE Stories
Ford Trucks for Ford Truck Enthusiasts
Top 10 Most Expensive Ford Trucks Ever Sold on Bring a Trailer
Joe Kucinski
2027 Ford Super Duty Buyer's Guide (Every Model, Engine, & Package)
Brett Foote
Top 10 Ford Truck Tragedies
Joe Kucinski
AEV FXL Super Duty - the Super Duty Raptor Ford Doesn't Make
Brett Foote
Lobo Vs Lobo: Proof the F-150 Lobo Should Be Even Lower!
Michael S. Palmer
Ford's 2001 Explorer Sportsman Concept Looks For a New Home
Verdad Gallardo
10 Best Ford Truck Engines We Miss the Most!
Joe Kucinski
2026 Shelby F-150 Off-Road: Better Than a Raptor R?
Brett Foote
2027 Super Duty Carhartt Package First Look: 12 Things You NEED to Know!
Michael S. Palmer
Thread
Thread Starter
Forum
Replies
Last Post