2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission Bed Removal

[msamarziya]

Need to change the fuel level sending unit on a 1998 2wd 3500. Have heard that it is easier to move the bed than to drop the tank. Has anyone had any experience with removing or raising the bed to do this operation? Any help would be appreciated.

 

[illflem]

Remove the three bolts that attach the bed on the drivers side, they are obvious, loosen the three on the pass side. Disconnect the fuel fill tube and vent, then jack er up. Use a piece of wood on the jack to protect your paint, don't jack on the extended fenders, they are plastic. If you don't have a jack that will get you high enough two guys can lift the one side and prop a board under it, 16" is enough to remove the tank module. Safety first, don't get under there without a block between the frame and bed to keep it from trapping you.

 

[Deezul1]

2 ways to do this. remove all bolts from one side and loosen the other and tilt the bed sideways enough to get at the sender or remove all bolts except the rear 2 , loosen those and lift front of bed. Remove stuff like fuel filler, any wiring, braces etc.

 

[Un-Hemi]

My 8' box is sitting beside the house on saw horses as I type this.



The 8' box has 8 bolts holding it to the frame. If you wish to completely remove the box, remove those bolts, then remove the bumper from the frame (6 bolts) and the plastic licence plate holder (5 screws on the '99). Disconnect the tail lamp and licence plate lamp connectors and ensure that all wiring harnesses are detached from the bottom of the box. Remove the screws that hold the fuel filler pipe to the box. It'll be necessary to remove the fuel cap also. Disconnect the ground wire at the front right corner of the box. Put a blanket across the front of the box to protect the cab. Remove the rear wheels and support the axle on jack stands. Get 4 friends (or TDR members) over to lift the box up and walk it back and onto saw horses. One of those friends holds the fuel filler pipe clear of the box. Clean up all the crud that has accumulated. Reassemble in reverse order.



It sounds more difficult than it actually is! Cheers!

 

[Vaughn MacKenzie]

Mine's off too...

I removed my bed with the help of PNWradar Friday. On a shortbed there are 6 bolts, then we had to disconnect the wiring to the taillights and backup lights.



I did not remove the filler setup but instead disconnected the hoses at the tank. We removed the license plate holder and had no trouble removing it without touching the bumper.



Jon and I took the bed off and carried it 30 feet by ourselves. NEVER again!! Decided 4 bodies instead of two was a good idea when we went to put it back on



A note about Jacking: Use a 2x4 to spread the weight out, the box is pretty flimsy and weak and you could probably tweak or dent it if done improperly. . .



Vaughn