The Stovebolt Site Forums The Parking Lot Big Bolts 1937 1-1/2 ton stake bed - BED

Hi, I'm new and I'm looking for information about the original beds on the stake-beds. I don't want to completely hold my breath, but I think I have a near-emmaculate original bed in my "new" acquisition.

There used to be a sheep camp built on the bed of the truck. That was torn off about 6 years ago, but had been on the truck as far back as anybody can remember. That being the case, the bed I now have could be a very well preserved original. I could get really excited about this, but like I said don't want to hold my breath.

They could have put a new floor in when they built the camp. (Wish the camp hadn't been torn off - it was really cool looking.)

Okay, this is what I have: 18 tongue & groove boards. Each is 5" wide, 1-1/2" thick, and 12' long. (Now I know you'll ask me what kind of wood, and I really don't know. I'll try to find out, though.)
All of those sit on 5 boards running the width of the bed. These are 4x6s sitting up (3.5" wide, and 5.5" tall).
These are sitting on 2 more 4x6s 12' long which are u-bolted to the two frame pieces.

As I read back through that, I think that makes no sense at all. I hope you guys are good at visualization. I have pictures which can be e-mailed. I just don't know how to make them a URL to post them here.

What do you guys think? What are my odds?

Husker

Ralph!
Is that somthing that is in reprint that can be ordered somewhere, or is that an original you have there. I would be much interested in getting a copy for my never ending project!
Ron

I would say it's an aftermarket bed. Most trucks were sold as cab/chassis set-ups then sent out to be fitted with a box to fit buyers needs. Mine has a grain box on it from Ottumwa, Iowa.
Scott

I don't see any signs of tags, marks, etc. which would give a clue as to the maker of the bed. There might have been one on the camper shell, but it has gone the way of the dodos.

I guess I will simply be happy with the fact that the wood is in excellent shape, and go from there.

I've been keeping the bed covered with a tarp as much as possible, however the wind keeps ripping it, and then it rains, ... I was thinking of putting a coat or two of linseed oil on the bed to help preserve it until I get around to working on it. Is that a good choice, or is there something that would work better?

Thanks for the info.
Husker