After years of not being able to work on my 49 because of taking care of my mother I have finally made some progress. I got a complete bed kit from a vendor here. I put it together with the supplied screws to make sure it all fit. The sides panels were twisted I guess from being stamped and the front panel was too. They did straighten up once screwed together. I then took it back apart and sprayed where it goes together so it wouldn't rust. After that I put it back together and I did try using the rivets but I had no luck with them. I read so many post where other members also tried so I just used 1/4x20 bolts and nuts with a screw head I like. I thought it would be easier to drill the bolt holes on the fiberglass rear fenders while the bed was on the floor but caught myself remembering the bottom of the fender needs to bolt to the running board. Saturday morning I used my engine puller to sit the bed on the truck and mounted my old running boards so today I can start mounting the fenders. The mounting edge don't fit the bed too good but I think the welting will cover this pretty good. I am not building a show truck, Just a driver. I know most paint them while apart but I will be edging the parts in and then spray it all when together. I also did a test fit of the wood. I found out after sitting the bed on that I will need to redo the way the mustang tank is mounted. I know it will need to be removed so I can mount the bed wood and bed down and install it last.

 

Good progress with the right approach. Glad you kept the truck. Enjoy the journey.

 

good to see someone makes progress

 

With the help of one ratchet strap and two carpenter clamps I got the fiberglass fenders mounted today. They don't look as bad as I first thought. The edging will fill the gap. The front end is next.