Frame Support Rail Questions
 

I removed the bed from my 71 C10 truck and have some questions about the support rails, and am hoping someone can help. Thanks for taking the time to read and/or respond.

Can I replace this frame rail with a piece of steel bar? I don't see why it would need to be exactly the same size and shape of the original? Is a replacement even available and what would I search for? Do I even need to replace it? It's so thin, it seems almost useless.


https://uniim1.shutterfly.com/ng/ser...094539/enhance

Is this frame rail supposed to have those indentations or is this one damaged?

https://uniim1.shutterfly.com/ng/ser...094385/enhance

Re: Frame Support Rail Questions
 

place a want to buy ad the parts section , Depending on which ones you need I have all of them .Drill out the old rivits and install the new ones with grade 8 bolts and your done .:chevy:

Re: Frame Support Rail Questions
 

Thanks for the advice, I appreciate it.

But I still need to know if the larger rail with the indentation is supposed to be like that?

Also, considering that the smaller rail in the photo is such a thin metal anyway, does it need to be replaced with the exact piece? I don't see why a thick piece of steel bar from Home Depot would not do the same job, but I would like to get a 2nd opinion before I do that.

Is the thin rail even needed? It does not seem to be doing very much.

Re: Frame Support Rail Questions
 

I think the larger crossmember is supposed to be straight, not indented like that.

And I believe the smaller thinner crossmember is only needed if you are using an under-bed spare tire carrier. It just gives the top side of the spare tire something to fit tight up against. So it could be replaced with a piece of angle iron, box steel tubing, etc.

Re: Frame Support Rail Questions
 

Thank You! I appreciate the help. I had a feeling that the large one might be damaged, especially since it looks like the bed probably bolts into it.