Easier to buy new frame or take current frame to shop?

[R402]

On my 80 shortbed the previous owner must have ran the front end into something pretty hard. The frame is buckled a bit on the drivers side and I was wondering what would be easier. Im not to worried about costs but more about how easy. I wont be working on it because im stationed in hawaii and its all the way back in nebraska so my bestfriend is doing it for me. Also I would like to have it done within a year for my wedding. So which way is easier and quickest? As of right now I cant find a parts truck to save my life. Also if I got a frame from 81-87 is there any difference in the previous years?

[Dead Parrot]

If there is no real emotional attachment to the current truck, easy is selling it as is and watching CL for ones you really like and having your friend do the eyes on examinations.

Trying to do a partial frame restoration by remote control is going to be a PITA. Even if your friend is the best person in the world, you run the risk of him(her?) have a real world crisis that prevents him from properly managing the repair process and you coming home for a wedding and having to deal with a half a truck and a pile of parts in a garage.

[cadillac_al]

Body shops straighten frames every day. Around here if you catch them in the off season the price would be fairly reasonable. It sounds like the truck is already driveable and the bend wasn't noticeable before. It should be an easy fix.

[andrewmp6]

If he can drive the truck have him take it to a few body shops and ask for a estimate to really know the cost.And also swapping out a whole frame is a big job and a lot of time so fixing your frame might be cheaper in the long run.

[R402]

Originally Posted by andrewmp6

If he can drive the truck have him take it to a few body shops and ask for a estimate to really know the cost.And also swapping out a whole frame is a big job and a lot of time so fixing your frame might be cheaper in the long run.

It did run when it was parked it been sitting for over a year now however. The frame isn't that bad the only problem it causes is the fender won't line up with the door properly. I wish I had pictures I could put up and show.
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[1774btcrew]

Another thing to consider on swapping the frame is it has a VIN number to match the cab. At the very least, I would make sure you get a title if you get a new frame. Unless it is just really twisted a frame pull shouldn't be a big deal and a lot less work/cost than doing a whole frame.

[bbbc10]

Im putting a new frame under mine an didnt get a title ��

[70K10Hunter]

titles generally go with the cabs.

[WyattTX]

If you have ever wanted a 4x4 truck, now is your chance. I have seen someone put a 73-80 front clip on an 81-87 truck, so yes you can interchange frames between years.