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And so, it begins... (again) The bed is off. I found a little surprise lurking between the bed and cab. Too bad it's not a metal sign, just a foam board one. I have to admit, I am a little compelled to hang it up in the shop.
Are you still selling parts from this truck? I'm very interested in the rear license plate light bezels. I live in Frankfort, KY. Please contact me at rs4614@yahoo.com if you'd be willing to ship them and let me know how much.
Here is the link for the video/audio that is good quality. Just released to the public today on Stacey David's Youtube channel. The "What Are You Workin' On?" segment about my truck project is at 20:50 in the video if you don't want to watch his whole show.
I have finished putting primer/sealer on the inside of the frame rails. I also started to make some wheel cribs. Around $100 in materials, but very labor intensive. 120 cuts of 2x4, and 100 screws per crib. These will lift the chassis almost 16" off the floor, while keeping the suspension under load. Much easier to access all the welding for boxing the chassis rails, and less bending over (important for us old guys!). It will also keep the chassis straighter during welding.
Now that I have the Stude bed in he shop on jack stands, I started to get some measurements. I also measured the frame width of the Dakota, and the overall width of each rear axle assembly. Since my 4 link rear suspension will be inside the frame rails, and the leaf springs and brackets will be removed from the outside of the frame, I will end up with 17" from the side of the frame to the inside lip of the rear fenders. No tubbing required! I was a little nervous that I may have to put in wheel tubs. But with those numbers, I can put some real steam rollers under there.
Last edited by TheSneeze; Jul 27, 2025 at 11:09 AM.
I finally completed the front suspension today. I got the sway bar, and all it's mounting brackets painted and installed. I also got all of the front brake lines installed as well. I also put in the Hooker Blackheart cross member. I am ready to test fit the engine and trans, so I can finish making the motor mount adapter plate for the driver's side (passenger side is already done). I like the way this cross member is designed to help tuck the exhaust up instead of hanging down.
