I had to replace the cross rails on the bed. I sat it down on the frame this weekend. Bolts drop in every hole but the left rear sill. It's too far back. I used a couple bolts dropped in to stop it from sliding while I pushed and pulled to get square.
Measuring I am spot on side to side. And I have equal measurements on each side referencing the tire.
Figuring some holes were not exact with the cross rails causing the problem? Just drill the frame? I have about 1/2 inch to get it where it needs to be with all other bolts dropped in.
Last edited by Ferris Bueller; Mon Jan 23 2023 07:44 PM.
1966 C-10 Step Side. 283, 4spd, 3.73 gear. 60K miles prior to restoration. 507 Paint Code. Currently in 10,000 pieces, but it's starting to go back together. Rear Suspension is done! Wheels are done! Bed bodywork is done! New 383 and TKO 5 speed in place.
Housekeeping (Moderator) Making a Stovebolt Bed & Paint and Body Shop Forums
I would double check the frame for squareness. Then maybe align the bed perfectly square with the frame (with just one front bolt in place) and see where you are. Then enlarge the hole(s) in the frame that are needed for the bolts to fit. Maybe split that 1/2" (or whatever it winds up needing) between more holes instead of just the one.
Kevin Newest Project - 51 Chevy 3100 work truck. Photos [flickr.com] #2 - '29 Ford pickup restored from the ground up. First car '29 Ford Special Coupe Busting rust since the mid-60's If you're smart enough to take it apart, you darn well better be smart enough to put it back together.
The only thing that I can tell from your pics is that the invisible man wearing nothing but gloves is creeping me out. When faced with a hole in the wrong place situation like yours, I try to make sure that the parts are square and where they are supposed to be located before I do any drilling. One thing you can try is, loosening all of the nuts and bolts which do line up and use a tapered drift in the hole that doesn't line up to see if you can coax it to line up. You will be asking all of those other holes to give up a little movement to equal the half inch you need. That's not too much to ask of them.
