the xtra length is yes as you said right behind the cab but it is also behind the rear wheel also as I have a set of fiberglass running boards for the short box and if I line up the wheel opening it also is longer in the back too. yes the frame has too be cut and lengthened about 20 inches or so and it has too be done right behind the cab and before the front spring perch for the rear springs. I have a pic with the body off and the frame bare ready for sandblasting

 

I would love to have a long box as yes that is better for the hauling. But I am thinking about painting it the same as the one I drive now and put a 440 big block into it with the sport tires and rimes and deck it out like the one I am driving now

 

 

EXT. Cab Long Box!!! Thats exactly what I want!! Want to make Me one

 

Is the frame just bolted? Or is it bolted and welded?

 

The frame is bolted and welded just to make sure it all says together with no problems. I know it might be overkill on bolting it but when this is the first real project like this and you dont know anyone to ask about doing something like this thats what ya get but yes I am doing all this in my storage unit that is 14 foot wide and 45 feet deep so when ya dont have the fancy tools too do anything with.

 

it took me a month of measuring to make sure I cut everything in the right spot

 

My first car show today with the Dakota and I took 2nd place in my class

 

Do you wana sell me a set then? Those in the photo are 14"!? The wheels that came on my Dakota were 14" were yours 15" from the factory? I planned on going with 15" wheels mine are too small.


I like the extended Dakota idea...I always wanted to take a regular cab long bed and cut the end of the bed off after the axle so the tailgate is RIGHT after the rear wheel (I think it would be the same as a regular cab with a 6.5ft bed only if you moved the axle and wheel well back).

 

Excellent job . . . bolting and welding was the only way to go. Tell us what you did about the driveshaft.