nc4x4

I have a 1998 4x4 extended cab and the previous owner had a boat and I think he put it in salt water. The rust is all the way through to the bed liner. I found a 2wd bed the same length for $150 and I was wondering if anyone has ever swapped them out and how hard it is. Thanks for any help!

josh_truck

the biggest thing is how bad are the bolts holding on the bed? if they are badly rusted, then it will be a pita to get off. But other than that its not too bad.

bikerboy

usually around here anyway, you have to cut all the bolts with a torch, you can cut them from the top around the bolts if you are just throwing the old bed away.

just don't hit fuel lines or fuel tank while cutting.

while you have it apart, might be a good time to install a new fuel pump, if yours is still original.

bigdreynolds

If I put my 02 that I rolled back together (I have all the parts) I will have to change bed and cab. Beds are not hard ... Cabs that's another story. I might just buy another truck and have extra drive train. 40000 miles on it not even broke in yet.

Hit-By-Thunder

ya, it is fairly easy, te bolts are a PITA as mentioned above. I had one that stripped the nut below. I just cut the top off with a cutting disc from inside the box. the rear lic. light harness remove and the hose clamp holding the fuel filler neck on the box. 3 screws inside the gas door, and up, up and away

Rob

I bought all new bolts and nut off e-bay for $9 bucks and 10 for shipping. Dealer wanted $8/bolt and $12 for the nuts

kingsandman

Cab's actually pretty easy.

gimmel1

What about goin from a fleet side to a step side is the bolt spacing and placement the same????

bigdreynolds

Just curious. Why did you pull the cab on that truck? I have a friend that owns a shop and he has 2 two post lifts. That's where it would all happen. With his help. Wasn't sure how hard it would be. I've done it on older trucks but I'm a little intimated with the newer ones I guess.

carbon

I would assume that all the bolt holes line up on all model beds. Correct me if I'm wrong.

nc4x4

thanks for all the help and pictures im swapping this weekend.