jmtebbens
07-26-2011, 12:57 AM
The new truck is ordered and on the way. Dodge 5500, reg cab, Cummins, 4x4, Stick.
I'm starting to sketch out the new bed for it and decided I would put up the basic outline and see what ideas are out there. This will be doing a lot of field modification/installation of conveyor components (scrapers, idlers, inspection doors, etc) so it is getting the Trailblazer 302 Air Pak on it. For a variety of reasons, this is what fits the bill at the current time.
Keep in mind that the frame rails are not level on the truck. However, the bed mounting points are all level. I put the rails in straight on the sketch for ease of drawing, I will obviously have to revise some attachement points and clearances when I get the truck. I took these (rough) measurements off of a 3500 that was on the lot.
Pretty much going to frame it out with 2x2x3/16(?). Sides will be 1/8" floor plate. I will probably farme the skirt sides with 1.5x1.5. Not sure about top decking yet. 1/4", 3/16, 1/8", I am just undecided right now.
If you notice, the welder will not be on the bed itself. I am planning to attach it to 3/8" plate and attach that directly to the truck frame. The idea is to keep the overall height of the bed as low as possible. I want to be able to actually use my rearview mirror if I can. I've also thought about adding a body lift to the cab to get even more visibility over the top of the bed. Also notice that the welder is off to the drivers side. That space on the passenger side is where the air reel, and maybe the lead reels, will go.
Like I said, not done yet but it is to scale. I added a ZIP of the Sketchup file if anyone wants to check it out.
Thoughts?
I'm starting to sketch out the new bed for it and decided I would put up the basic outline and see what ideas are out there. This will be doing a lot of field modification/installation of conveyor components (scrapers, idlers, inspection doors, etc) so it is getting the Trailblazer 302 Air Pak on it. For a variety of reasons, this is what fits the bill at the current time.
Keep in mind that the frame rails are not level on the truck. However, the bed mounting points are all level. I put the rails in straight on the sketch for ease of drawing, I will obviously have to revise some attachement points and clearances when I get the truck. I took these (rough) measurements off of a 3500 that was on the lot.
Pretty much going to frame it out with 2x2x3/16(?). Sides will be 1/8" floor plate. I will probably farme the skirt sides with 1.5x1.5. Not sure about top decking yet. 1/4", 3/16, 1/8", I am just undecided right now.
If you notice, the welder will not be on the bed itself. I am planning to attach it to 3/8" plate and attach that directly to the truck frame. The idea is to keep the overall height of the bed as low as possible. I want to be able to actually use my rearview mirror if I can. I've also thought about adding a body lift to the cab to get even more visibility over the top of the bed. Also notice that the welder is off to the drivers side. That space on the passenger side is where the air reel, and maybe the lead reels, will go.
Like I said, not done yet but it is to scale. I added a ZIP of the Sketchup file if anyone wants to check it out.
Thoughts?