Longbed vs Shortbed

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Sep 25, 2003 | 03:42 PM

glenwilliamson

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From: Moline, IL

Longbed vs Shortbed

Is the only difference the bed itself.

I am looking at a 65 shortbed, but may want to change it later to a longbed, can this be done without tweeking the frame?

thanks
Glen

Sep 25, 2003 | 04:04 PM

Big Orn

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From: NE Texas

This is really not the best place to post this, Glen, but I can tell you that you don't want to get a shortbed then make it a longbed unless you know alot about lenghtening frames, brakes lines, driveshafts, wiring, etc. And I wouldn't recommend doing it the other way around either. Just get the truck you want. Go ahead and turn loose of the cash and get that '65 longbed.

Sep 25, 2003 | 04:08 PM

glenwilliamson

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From: Moline, IL

Thanks Big Orn, I didnt know if it was just abolt on thing or what. I might pursue this anyway, with the idea that the modification is a no no. Its for sale in my area, so shipping costs a re 0 which helps my finances

Ill just have to see

Sory if this is in the wrong spot, ill be carful where i post to next time.

and thanks for the tip

Sep 25, 2003 | 04:51 PM

Big Orn

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From: NE Texas

Well, its not now. Or maybe my brouser is going wild, but I thought that it was in the GEN-CON forum. The way things are going today it could just be me, though.

But, if you know how to brace and weld the frame without damaging its stress factors, then sure, you can lengthen or shorten the frame for whatever size bed you want.

Good luck, Glen, and keep us posted.

Sep 25, 2003 | 05:27 PM

cdherman

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Joined: Jun 2003

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From: Parkville, MO (KC)

I really would advise against a short to long conversion. Partly because its a complicated process, but also -- the shorties are more desirable anyhow (in the open market, never mind your or my personal tastes) and thus you are going loose some money right there.

Of course, if the pickup is a steal, then buy it. But all in all, there are still quite a few nice slicks out there. Patience is a great virtue. Wait for the one that has good metal and the right bed length/type for you. Metal and bed type are the two items that are hardest to remedy. Engine, tranny, all the other stuff is easy compared to a rusted out cab corner or cab support!!!!

Good luck.......

Sep 26, 2003 | 06:21 AM

ddavidv

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Joined: Jan 2002

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From: Elizabethtown, PA

If you want a long bed, by all means, get one first.
Short beds are more desirable for the custom crowd, so they go for more $.
I wanted a SB, but bought a LB just because it was a great deal. And with the 2 tone paint, it doesn't look as long.
The difference in length is between the cab and the rear wheels, not behind the wheels, so you would have to alter frame length to change beds. :-staun

Sep 26, 2003 | 03:27 PM

armyguy

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Joined: Sep 2003

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From: Washington

PLEASE DON`T RUIN THAT SHORT BED, THEY ARE IN QUITE A DEMAND AND GETTING HARDER TO FIND, YOU SHOULD HAVE NO PROBLEM GETTING A GOOD PRICE OR TRADING STRAIT ACROSS AT A SWAP MEET..