Step Side Versus Long Fleet Side

[AlaskaK10]

Hello Everyone

I have been looking for a 64-66 K10 4X4. I want a step side bed SWB. I have found a long box fleet bed truck. Would it be a no-no to shorten the frame and make it a step side. the frame and cab serial numbers match so that is good.

[SkinnyG]

Some will poo-poo it.

Resale-wise it will likely be worth less than if it was uncut.

Whether it is still structurally equaivalent it could be questionable, and maybe not legal where you are (it isn't where I am).

Having said that, I've shortened my last three trucks.

[Arne]

My '64 C10 was originally a long fleetside. The previous owner shortened it and built up a stepside bed from (mostly) new parts. The work was done well, properly reinforced and welded. Then he lost interest in the project and I picked it up and finished it.

Would it be better or worth more if it was an original short step? For my mild restomod, maybe a little bit. But probably not a whole lot. A real short bed might be an easier sell than a shortened truck. But again, for the type of truck I finished, maybe not a lot.

If you think you might want to sell it when you are done, I'd maybe think twice. But if you are thinking about it for yourself, for a truck you plan to keep, I'd say make it what you want it to be.

[Backpayne]

Go to Facebook Marketplace and search for "bed trailer". A lot of step side beds were used to make diy trailers. Sell the longbed sides, front panel, and tail gate to fund the step side bed. Cut the frame down and voila!

[forestb]

I would say build it the way you want it or you will spend all of your time wishing you had changed it.

If you were closer to SoCal I would be tempetd to trad beds with you. I have a short stepside

[AlaskaK10]

Very Helpful I like the bed trailer idea will do that