About to replace the wood bed, have some questions!

[1963-4x4]

So, I just finished tearing out all the old, rotted plywood from my 63, and I have a few questions regarding replacing it.

I can't afford a kit premade for replacing it, so I'm resorting to some DIY options. I plan on using 2x6's for my replacement wood, and without the metal strips that go between them. I was wondering how much should I plane off of the wood, what kind of gap should I leave between them, and if 2x6's are even the best option. For anyone who has done this before, how wide was the wood you used?

Pictures are always appreciated!

[Sillyoldman]

Use 1 x (3/4" thick) lumber. Anything else will throw off your bed height. Thicker wood wont fit into the front roll pan either. Check out GMC Pauls for directions on how to make your own replacement wood. http://www.gmcpauls.com/47-72_BedWood_Info.htm

[62 Barnfind]

I also cut my bed myself using GMC paul's dimensions. It's not hard just use a scrap piece first to cut it right. It cost me about $80 to do it.

[1963c-10]

Be carefull if planning on using treated lumber....some of the new chemicals will rust / eat metal.

[1963-4x4]

Thanks a bunch, that website will definitely help me a lot!

[jayoldschool]

Originally Posted by 1963c-10

Be carefull if planning on using treated lumber....some of the new chemicals will rust / eat metal.

Is pressure treated ok to use if the wood is completely primed/painted with exterior paint?

[68panelman]

Pressure treated lumber is no good as bedwood. The sun makes it crack,check,warp within 8-12 months, It's only good when in constant moisture/water. As a Dockbuilder by trade, ask me how i know.

[Rich 5150 69]

Glad I got rid of the wood 20 years ago.....T6061 T-6 alum plate.

[jayoldschool]

Originally Posted by 68panelman

Pressure treated lumber is no good as bedwood. The sun makes it crack,check,warp within 8-12 months, It's only good when in constant moisture/water. As a Dockbuilder by trade, ask me how i know.

My deck is made of pressure treated. It still looks fine ten years after being built. It sits outside all year in the rain and snow....

[bschoolz1]

also used pressure treated wood in my bed no problems at all just a ***** to cut

[68panelman]

Originally Posted by jayoldschool

My deck is made of pressure treated. It still looks fine ten years after being built. It sits outside all year in the rain and snow....

Just giving an opinion, If i was replaceing bedwood, Thats a job i would want to do only once.

['65 chevy lover]

Great site Sillyoldman! Thanks for posting that!

[jesseo]

Getting ready to do the same myself. Got the wood today and plan to work on it the next couple of weekends.

[Clyde65]

I've seen some guys use that composite lumber before, that is maintenance free and will probably outlast the truck, only issue is the cost.

I called a lumber company and asked for Hicory/Pecan wood. Cut to my dimensions was $175. Picked up. Before you say anything, I gave them what GMCPaul had. It is a very hard wood,will weather well and take stain easily. This is what I'll do for my bed when I get to it.
Posted via Mobile Device