Brothers Shortbed Conversion for under $100

[cebra]

I am still unsure why people spend $450 for a Brothers Shortbed Conversion kit. I mostly duplicated the kit for about $75. The only missing items is the template to idiot proof where to cut. It isn't difficult 12" out of the flat under the cab and 8" off the back, there are even bumper bracket holes on the back that guide the 8". Here is the parts list to duplicate:

(Expensive Route)
Frame Stiffeners: Summit Racing CLP-6372RFS $40
Parking Brake Cable: Classic Parts 71-761 (varies by Trans) $14
Brake Line: Classic Parts 71-830 $45, I just did auto store lines and bent myself
Hardware: Tractor Supply Grade 8 Bolts, Nuts, Washers, Lockwashers (need 40x 1" or so 3/8" bolts) maybe $15

(Super Cheap Route)
Frame Stiffeners: Use 12" Piece removed split longways and welded back together
Parking Brake Cable: $10 Rock Auto (SWB Intermediate)
Brake Line: Auto Parts Store $10
Hardware: Same as above $15

Steps I Used (I didn't remove the bed, there are better instructions available on here but I am going to run through them generally as I did it as I think most people are paying the $450 for the kit mostly to get the template but it is really not necessary)

1. If pre-purchased stiffeners, mark a line down the middle, drill 2 bolt holes on top, 2 on bottom, and 4 in side...on each side of line
2. Remove bumper, measure 8" and cut (I used a grinder with a cut-off wheel
3. Remove fuel, brake lines, wiring under cab attached to frame rails and remove driveshaft
3. Mark 12" back from rivets on rear cab mount to frame
4. Measure ~8" forward of the line made in step 3 and draw line
5. Measure 12" forward of the line made in step 4 and draw line (both 4 and 5 need to be in a flat part of the frame)
6. Do "X" measurement to points in front of #4 and behind #5
7. Support cab, frame under cab in front of line in #5, and frame under bed behind line in step #4
8. Drill out/grind off rivets for cab support and remove
9. Make cuts on lines #4 and 5
10. Push rear frame forward to meet frame under cab
11. C-clamp in frame stiffeners
12. Measure same spots used in step #6 and align as needed
13. Drill holes through stiffeners through frame and bolt in
14. Remeasure X and tighten down
15. drill holes marked in #3 and bolt in cab supports
15. get driveshaft cut down, reinstall brake line, parking brake cable, wiring etc.
16. Weld in frame stiffeners and cut made
17. Reinstall back bumper