And so it continues...
I found a solid cab, fenders and bed and headlights to replace the ones I have that have a touch (or more) of cancer and will be picking them up when I get in from offshore.
To prepare for swapping the bed out, I started removing the sides today. I know it's "easier" to remove it as one piece then disassemble, but as I am a one man operation, sometimes you have to improvise.....
I removed the diamond plate from the bed and realized the entire floor was gone.
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The diamond plate had been tack welded in place, so I cut access to the side wall bolts. In doing this, I realized the Phillips head screws were rusted 70 years in and to save them, the juice wasn't worth the squeeze, so out came the drill.....
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I also learned how the tool box and covers are separate, so that rocks.....
I also realized the tire on the right back is going soft again. That will be something to investigate later.
One other lesson I was reminded of..... bolts that have been in place are stinking HOT when you take them off!!!!
Right now I have more bolts than batteries in my drill, so I'm letting them charge overnight and will finish the bed tomorrow and possibly start on removing the cab.
If anyone has any hints or suggestions, please feel free to share!