The original bed was a special built 'cattle pen' by the farmer for shuttling cattle around. During teardown, I checked the quality of existing materials, and they weren't going to last (literally rusting and rotting away.) Also, IT WAS NOT A FACTORY BED. And having been built by a farmer, it lasted pretty well for its 60 year life!
I don't intend on moving cattle, and I am looking for something that will handle a modern Full-size pickup load (I'm in town). I am leaning towards the steel channel but wanted a second and third opinion. I got time.
I am strongly inspired by John's
49 Big Bolt Bed project. I'd like the bed width to match my truck width and utilize the full frame length. I also like the look of wood stake sides.
This is what it looks like now, obviously no bed.
