well i think im going to be changing my 52F2 flatbed to a short bed.... but where to find one? I know i can buy most of the sheet metal new, but id rather not cough up yet another $2-3000, so anyone have ideas on where i can start my search?

 

Northern Classic Trucks and others have them complete for around $1200 delivered. I really doubt you'll find a clean used '51-'52 bed, I have never seen one anyway. These were well used as trucks back then, and the solution to the bed wood rotting seemed to be to put layers of plywood on top of it, which spread the rot further up the sides.

 

Pro's Pick makes a nice bed and if you order it at one of the shows they attend they will deliver it free. I spoke with the Pro's Pick rep at an NSRA show in Burlington, Vt, last fall and that's who I'll be ordering mine from when the time comes.

Vern

 

Your better off buying a new bed. Spending a little more is well worth it.
I rebuilt the bed on my 56. Went out & bought sheet metal & made new sides. After it was done I was better off buying a new bed.
Take a look at my forum & you will see all the work it took just to rebuild the bed.
Mike

 

Seen and touched all the beds out there and must admit the ProsPick is fine as wine. Just got one with the smoothie gate and hidden latches/hinges,wow strips and oak. If you like the truck , it is worth it. You could do it a bit at a time.
PS: anyone near CO want a nice free orig bed/gate with no rust??
PS: Mike, your 56 is mighty fine.

 

Thanks for the complement. Thats what the work is for.