I have about an hour of work left on the new bed but I think it came out pretty good. Big project for this novice restorer. Thanks to those who provided advice.
thanks The next project is to rewire the truck. I bough the e z wire kit and have printed out your blow by blow.
It really is simple. Plan it out and install section by section. Take notes on anything custom you do or plan so you can always consult it. Call me if you hit any snags.
Bed Rebuild Very nice indeed . No , go get some plywood to cover it in case you decide to use the truck for hauling... A note : unless you have many added things , the original , stock , $100 replacement harness works just fine , you don't need all those extra wires , a radio etc. is simple to add on .
Very nice bed, Denis. What did you use to protect the wood? I'm not there yet, but looking at options.
According to Mar Cal's testing, all clears will fail in weather, some faster than others- usually starting with the sharp corners. The Tung oil on the 53 has been in Florida for 2 years and is looking great.
Tung Oil ! It's AMAZING stuff ! . Just be aware you need to wear gloves when applying it and toss out the brush or clean rags you use to apply it . Best of all , you can easily apply more in the years to come , keeping your wood sealed and looking nice .