The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area Making a Stovebolt Bed Bed rebuild

I have a 53 short bed. Do I need to remove the bed box from the frame to replace the bed? Thanks.

I don't think so but I have not owned a 53. I've seen it down without taking the bed off and if my memory is correct a bolter put it together with all the wood and then set the bed on......but to answer your question I think it can be done. I'm sure someone else will chime in.

I used to have a 53. The bed is held on by bolts through the bed wood. So it is possible to replace it on the truck but I think it would be a lot eaiser to remove it and set it on some saw horses. Then you just drive under it and lower back on the frame.

Thanks guys but what I meant to ask about was replacing the bed boards- is it easier to do so when the bed is off the frame?

I did it with the bed still on the frame, that way I drilled my boards to match the holes in the supports. My bed supports had many holes in it from PO'S changing the boards. I didn't run into any problems at all. There are a few photos on my site. Have a look. Coach Frank

Look at this series of pictures, this is how I did mine as well. I think you could end up with a fit problem or two the other way.
http://www.flickr.com/photos/advance-design_parts_co/sets/72157631884205225/

Thanks!