Hi Brian,
I've been searching for solutions to my 1946 3/4 ton stakebed and yours looks great. I think I have a source for used lumber, or "barnwood" as they call it these days, so I'm going to try and follow your procedures. Where did you get the bed strips? I've got to make all of the stake sides too so I'm going to be buying lots of lumber. I have the original corners that are in very good shape.
thanks,
Joe