demo man,
I have a 55/1st 4400 flatbed. I built a new 12' bed and then started searching for material for the deck. It was to be a working rig so I didn't want a fancy wood.
I discovered a wood called APITONG..it is the deck you see in commercial trailers and vans. It's clear and tougher than nails. It doesn't shrink and swell much and it is very strong. It is imported and milled at a location in the east bay...near you.
If you would like, I can see if I can get the name and address of the place I found it. It doesn't have lots of character, but it is a very functional, hard working decking material.
Another wood that is often used is PurpleHeart. It, like Apitong, is an imported hardwood. Purpleheart, as its name implies, is a dark red beautiful wood, very hard and weather resistant. This wood would make a show bed and wear well too.
Stuart
