The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area General Truck Talk 1969 Chevy long bed to short bed

I have a 1969 1/2 ton chevy long bed. I want a shortbed truck but this one was way to cheap to pass up. As of now I do not have a shortbed for the conversion but if and when i get one where do i start. I know that the frame would have to be cut. But where? At the back of the cab or at the tail of the truck? Also since I am looking for a shortbed any help finding one would be great.


eric

Welcome to the Stovebolt!

The answer is probably both. You need to shorten the wheelbase, which is a cut between the front axle and the rear, and you probably have too much frame behind the rear axle, requiring it be trimmed too.

There was an article in a magazine a while back describing the complete process. Someone makes a kit to make it easier, but I don't recall which magazine or who makes the kit.

Kirby, I helped do just the opposite many years ago. We cut the frame right behind the cab and welded in a piece and reenforced it on the inside. The bed went right on without adding anything behind the rear spring mount. I imagine the reverse would be the same. Jim