Frame shortening

[mechanicalman]

Originally Posted by the ideaman

We shortened the frame on my '67 using the frame stiffeners from Early Classic Enterprises. Once the bed is off, it only took about 12 hours with cleaning, measuring and welding. We lifted the back of the cab off the back mounts and tilted it forward a couple inches to get at the frame. I wouldn't hesitate to do it again.

More good info, thanks!

[mechanicalman]

Originally Posted by Oldtruckfanatic

I'm doing a 72 like that now we cut the frame section off and slit the corners I'm working on stepping the sides now and I will step the upper and lower flanges and then tig weld the slits at the corners. Hopefully it will slide inside the other frame section and I will weld it back together. I got the idea while putting a gooseneck hitch in a guys 08 silverado.

Trying to picture what you are doing there, sounds like the step bends could prove difficult but if you think about anything long enough it can usually be done easier than one would think on first sight. Sounds like it will fit together like a gutter drain pipe only 3 sides instead of 4.

Makes me wonder if there is a rectangular box steel out there somewhere that would simply slide over the two frame sections as an external box. Square up the frame, clamp or bolt it, and weld.

[Fitz]

Originally Posted by mechanicalman

Thanks for the link, Fitz. I think I'm at least going to raise the cab if I want enough frame rail exposed to weld the top and to use the frame stiffener channels to align/reinforce it properly. I think I'm going to have to move the rear cab mount brackets as well.

See there I'm learning! LOL

We all do!

[LostMy65]

Originally Posted by Turbo1dr

This is the method I'd do if I were to shorten my frame. There are several videos showing all the steps but this one is about cutting the frame below the cab. Watch all the video's and you will see how easy it really is.


LMC Truck: Shortbed Conversion [S7 Ep. 3-3] - YouTube

Thanks for the video link.
I like his reasoning for rounding the corners to prevent cracks from starting.

[dacavy]

I have cut 2 frames. One I did behind the cab because I didnt want to remove the cab, and the other was under the cab like Stacey did. Both worked out great it just depends on how far you want to take the truck down. Youll do great if you just follow the advice (and measurements) of all the guys that have successfully done the shortening. GOOD LUCK!!

[dazza]

I know you said you have a short bed already and maybe you've seen this, but amazing work here...

[LostMy65]

So, has anyone used these?
https://www.summitracing.com/parts/c...2rfs/overview/

[rjs53]

Just cut mine under the cab, removed a foot. I was going to do the Stacy David cut, but the frame on the pass side has a lip in it. Mu cut would have ended up in the middle of it. I did a straight cut and boxed it, couldn't find any channel to sleeve it, unless I bought a full stick. Glad I checked this post, saw that CPP sells some precut. I'll get it and go back in and put them in for added protection. Good luck with your truck.

[rjs53]

Just noticed this is a old post, oh well found something new

[LostMy65]

Yep, old threads doesn't mean out of date information.
I was hoping to hear if anyone has used those stiffeners and how nice did they fit?

[RedRider]

Originally Posted by LostMy65

Yep, old threads doesn't mean out of date information.
I was hoping to hear if anyone has used those stiffeners and how nice did they fit?

They look like the ones Brothers uses in their shortening kit

[rjs53]

Hate to throw money away, but I'm getting ready to order some stuff from Summit and for less than $40 I think I'll take a chance.

[tutone]

Click on my build thread. I used the ECE stiffeners and there is detailed instructions on the process. Best money I spent.

[72Cheyenne454]

I shortened my frame under the cab. I unbolted all the cab mounts, loosened the core support mounts and lifted/tilted the cab up to give me some working room.
A few pics...

My build -
http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=379889

[72Cheyenne454]

And finished -

[Coley]

...I'm kind of glad I'm not into this trend, lol.

[leddzepp]

That sure is a lot of work! Looks like you did a great job.

[LostMy65]

Originally Posted by tutone

Click on my build thread. I used the ECE stiffeners and there is detailed instructions on the process. Best money I spent.

How snug do they fit before you weld them in?

[LostMy65]

Originally Posted by LostMy65

How snug do they fit before you weld them in?

I got my ccp stiffeners from summit today.
Very tight fit. So tight, I was at first concerned.
But they fit so tight, I had to tap them in with a hammer.
They are pretty heavy duty too.
Now to cut a perfectly good longbed frame in half.

[rjs53]

Same here, got the frame inserts and they do fit snug. I think they'll work great.

[BCOWANWHEELS]

gonna do my 72 c10 asap