Suggestions needed on shortening old truck frame

[kf4uda]

This was done a few weeks back on the TV show "Gearz" with Stacey David. He shortened a 67 Chevy but the process should be similar. This was also done on a TV show called "Trucks" but I don't know where to find the video.

You can watch the full episode of Gearz here:

Gearz Episodes: LMC Truck: Shortbed Conversion | Stacey David's GearZ

I finally found the "Trucks" episode. It shows how to cut your existing bed down as well as the frame.

One-Half a C-10 | Trucks! | PowerBlockTV.com - Video

 

[woodlandfarms]

I am no metal expert, actually quite incompetent in this regard, but I do think a portaband is an amazing piece of cutting gear.

 

[sixdogs]

I have been involved with a project like this and these two methods by Shield Arc are the way to go. Look closely at the sketches and duplicate one or the other. I would not use a torch, however since the surface requires too much grinding. Pick a flat section of the frame and meticulously scribe where the cuts go. Mark some reference dimensions to make sure the whole thing is square when you're done and just do it. Add a backing plate to the inside welded surface of the frame or better yet just box a portion of the frame where the cut was. It will be very strong. Take your time and it is not overly difficult.

I'm in the process of lengthening a bucket, I used zip discs to slice the ends of the bucket off. Sawzall was just to hard on my wrist, and to slow.
Here is a picture of a frame splice, with fish plate someone posted on one of the welding forums. This is how I would make the joint.

Here is another drawing the same guy did, but with a 45-degree cut.

 

[ovrszd]

For the cutting tool, Plasma Cutter hands down. Once you have determined the lines you'd be done with both sides in a matter of a couple minutes. Using a guide you'll have very little cleanup work to do as well.

As for the patterns, Shield Arc gave you two very good patterns to follow.

Once you get over the mental part, it's actually not difficult and will be as strong as the original frame.

 

[crazyal]

When I did an international a local spring shop had different hangers to work on different sections of the frame. Internationals have the springs on the sides of the frame rails, are the Fords different? If given a choice I would try to avoid cutting the middle of the frame out on a truck larger than a pickup.

 

[855atty]

Good evening!
I just watched an episode of "GEARZ" on the SPEED channel [607 on directv] this evening [5-7-13] where Stacy David [host] shortened a long bed p/u to short bed length. He has a website Stacey David's GearZ | Official Website. You may be able to find the info there. He used a sawsall and a mig welder i believe! and boxed the new area for support.

good luck!!

 

[855atty]

sorry! i started reading the thread in the middle. i see you found out about GEARZ!1