Hi boys and girls.
I haven't been on in awhile because I was putting all of your valuable information to good use. Wish I had some pictures to share but nothing exciting to show. The truck is partially disassembled and I've been bouncing between tasks. So far:
1. Headlights, parking lights, signals and horn all working. Replaced signal switch, cancelling cam, horn switch, horn, ignition switch, headlight switch
2. Seat removed and I'm in the process of fixing broken springs so I can upholster. Vinyl is good so it will go back on.
3. Removed gas tank. That is off to be cleaned, etched and lined this week.
4. Front box panel is in process of being removed. Way too banged up and rusted to salvage.
5. Cleaning up cab floor so I can patch floor pans.
6. Passenger door glass, runs, and weather stripping all out and ready for replacement.
So here are the questions. Does anybody have any trick for getting those 4 nasty oversized screws out that attach side panel, stake pocket and front panel together. I fought with them for several hours today. I can't find a part number for these screws, so if anyone knows size etc, I'd be very appreciative. I'm sure I will have ruined these before they are out. Finally, I'd be interested in any opinions regarding vendors for sheet metal and bed parts. I've read good things about NPD, DC and LMC. Would be interested in hearing your reviews.
Thanks in advance for continuing to help on this project. I'm in too deep to stop now.

 

 

Look at Mar K out of Oklahoma
I purchased the front bed panel for 65 along with tailgate
I am very happy with quality so far.
I went with them because i read feedback on other vendors that it was pain to get the bolts to align due to the fact the nuts were loose
Mar K panels have the nuts welded on and comes with bolts and I believe smaller bolts if you want to bolt all way down rather then weld
I drilled out spot welds and used those holes for the new bolts
Mark K has a latch system for their tailgates to get rid of the chains
If you go that route, their tail gates can be ordered with the cutouts already in place or you can go traditional.
worth a check

 

Once again FTE comes through. Finally got the panel off with some cursing, some tears and a little recreational bleeding. The spot welds were easier than the rivets. I appreciate the recommendation and its nice to know that someone is happy with their product. If other readers have good sheet metal results, feel free to chime in.

 

I bought my front bed panel and the side panels from LMC. They fit but took a lot of "adjusting" to all line up. After those purchases I discovered DC from these posts and everything I've bought from them (especially window parts) have fit perfectly.