Replacement sheet metal
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Lead Driver
Joined: Nov 2003
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From: Campbell River, B.C.
Replacement sheet metal
Both my trucks need new box sides, or ideally, complete replacement boxes. I have seen complete sides made of steel that is hopefully OEM thickness, and I have heard of composite replacements, I was wondering if anyone here has dealt with aftermarket box sides before.
Some also mention having both inside and outside skin in one unit (in the case of steel), anyone use ever these???
If they exsist for the 80-86 fords, I would be tempted to use composite (complete boxes for 74-79 are available), simply because I do lots of freeway driving in rain and in the winter on salted roads, otherwise I am even thinking of making my own out of aluminium (which I work with for a living), prolly 1/8" plate.
Any ideas or opinions??
Some also mention having both inside and outside skin in one unit (in the case of steel), anyone use ever these???
If they exsist for the 80-86 fords, I would be tempted to use composite (complete boxes for 74-79 are available), simply because I do lots of freeway driving in rain and in the winter on salted roads, otherwise I am even thinking of making my own out of aluminium (which I work with for a living), prolly 1/8" plate.
Any ideas or opinions??
Postmaster
Joined: Jul 2003
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From: Pittsburgh
I priced putting an all new bed together through LMC truck and IIRC it was going to cost about $1500 in parts.
They're supposed to be pretty good, but i've never used any replacement panel larger than a fender so I don;t know first hand.
Justin
They're supposed to be pretty good, but i've never used any replacement panel larger than a fender so I don;t know first hand.
Justin
Last edited by hoxiii; Dec 3, 2007 at 08:04 PM.
Postmaster
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From: Central PA
I have used the aftermarket sides ones. Usually come predented for you as they ship em in cardboard. Fenders are OK but bed side r flimsy.
But for $350+ a side and add install. (if you cant do your self ) I can get other rustfree bed with a gate and lights for $300+- more.
But I know you don't have people shipping in used parts so the sides would be ticket for you .
But for $350+ a side and add install. (if you cant do your self ) I can get other rustfree bed with a gate and lights for $300+- more.
But I know you don't have people shipping in used parts so the sides would be ticket for you .
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From: Pittsburgh
Postmaster
Joined: Feb 2003
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From: Muskegon, MI (home)
I have used the aftermarket fenders, they fit okay but the steel thinkness and spot weld quality leaves a bit to be desired. Never tried the bedside skins, I bought a rust free complete bed from down south for $500 for my resto/mod project.
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Lead Driver
Joined: Nov 2003
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From: Campbell River, B.C.
Hmm, so the aftermarket steel sides aren't even the same thickness as OEM? thats not very good, especially at that price.
So have any of you ever seen composite bed sides for this year of truck????
So have any of you ever seen composite bed sides for this year of truck????
Senior User
Joined: Sep 2006
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From: LaFollette Tn
Hi David85.If there is a dealer around your area that sells UTILITY BEDS,check with them for a good replacement bed.IIRD the beds from 80 to 96 will fit.Some good deals have been gotten at those places.Leo
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Posting Guru
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From: sunny fla sometimes windy
May as well get fiberglass bed sides and make a diamond plate floor the weight savings may help the old MPG or is it KPL!! A fiberglass hood and fenders will
give it the complete treatment.
give it the complete treatment.
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Lead Driver
Joined: Nov 2003
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From: Campbell River, B.C.
Originally Posted by blue beast
May as well get fiberglass bed sides and make a diamond plate floor the weight savings may help the old MPG or is it KPL!! A fiberglass hood and fenders will
give it the complete treatment.
give it the complete treatment.
Senior User
Joined: Sep 2006
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From: LaFollette Tn
110% sure.Do like I suggested.Check out any utility bed dealers in your area for good takeoffs.They can usually be had fairly cheap.About two months ago a friend of mine got a good deal on a bed for a 91 Chebby from a utility bed dealer in Knoxville.$300.00 dollars.
Leo
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