Question on a flatbed install and frame strength.

[Kiohio]

I am getting ready to install a flatbed I just bought.

It came from a 90 or 91 Dodge.

It has decent mounts etc.

It is set up to bolt horizontally through the frame instead of just using u bolt style mounts.

I'm wondering if I sould try to strengthen the frame any while I have the bed off.

It will be called on from time to time to pull a decent sized load.

It has a GN hitch already welded to the bed.



KO

 

[Philip]

The way B&W mounted my bed was to use the existing holes in the rear of the frame where the bumper mounts. Then they used one strap brace on the outside of the frame at the axle center line (both sides). Then they used the front pickup bed mounts for the other mounting point.





I wouldn't worry about trying to strengthing the frame any.





I have a turnover ball made into my bed.

 

[Kiohio]

I'm rather surprised at how light the frames are on these.

I got the bed off and was hammering out some bolts on the frame and bent the top channel just a little.

I'm removing excess fat now.

Spare tire carrier, ABS BS etc.



KO

 

[Philip]

A frame is a lot softer than a lot of people think it is. It needs to flex or it will crack from vibration.



You think your frame is light. Crawl under a later model truck. It doesn't matter what mfg eather.

 

[Kiohio]

That did cross my mind, the flexing, but I really know very little about frame/chassis stuff.



KO