The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area General Truck Talk Bolting Front Clip - 1959 1/2 Ton

Hi Guys,
During my frame-off restoration '59 1/2 ton apache I dismantled all my body components. Any advise or directions on how to re-bolt the fenders, inner fenders, radiator support etc back to the chassis....I bought a bolt kit and was just going to try and figure out what order to do-it, but I'm a novice and thought you pros could help....

thanks
pork

If everything is in pieces then I would start with the radiator core support, followed by the inner fenders, the the outer fenders. Leave all the bolts a bit loose until everything is properly aligned. For the bolts going into the fender well I would suggest coating the threads with small dab of anti-sieze if this is your final assembly. This will make it easier on the next person who has to un-bolt the fenders. Go slow and have some help with you.

rad support back 1st - then inners, fenders - bolt all lightly in what looks like the right position [use the space along the front of the door for a guide] then front pieces between fenders which should line everything up pretty good, retighten everything - hood last as it has the most adjustment - don't fergit all the rubber bits

the whole 'doghouse' can be assembled on the ground and put on the truck in one piece, but it's pretty heavy to be jackin around, especially if it's already been repainted

assembly really needs 2 people - at the end if the hood doesn't sit right when closed you need new hinges

Bill

thanks red and houston