2003 Silverado Flatbed Conversion

[DowTom]

Hey everybody,
New here, but I wanted to get everyone's opinion of the topic. I currently have a 2003 Silverado with a 6ft rhino lined bed. I do alot of hauling for my business (work in the Port of Baltimore). We do alot of spare parts for ships. Now my question is does anyone have any suggestions on how to build a flat bed (material suggestions).

I am currently pretty sure i will be using a angle steel to make the basic rectangle frame, a wood floor stained and carriage bolted to the angle steel, and most likely square tube (suggest a better, but not terribly heavier option) for the cross member supports. I than plan to take C channel for raising the bed above my tire limit(is this necessary) because I will not be building tire humps.


What do you suggest as for types of material to use, any pictures?

I appreciate any help, i hope to be around here and check out the forums for a while.

 

[PenguinLTZ]

Welcome to the site, and good luck with your project

 

[DowTom]

Thanks I will Im gonna try to start ASAP. Currently also looking for a diesel truck to tinker with and trash around

 

[buRRp]

Welcome to TMC. When you start building take lots of pics. We like pics here. And make a thread in the Members Build.

 

[DowTom]

haha will do. Wife is pissed I wanna do it, said it's a stupid idea. But doesnt understand how much better it will be for me if a forklift can get in at any angle.

 

[Zembonez]

If you haul a lot of stuff on pallets, I think it's a great idea. Welcome to the site!

 

[DowTom]

Thanks for the support, Question for ya? do you think it's best to lift the bed up higher than the max travel for the tires? Or just mount directly to the frame, i've seen both and cant decide whats best. Im thinking to raise it cause i carry on a reg basis 1500+ lbs.


Also because i do haul this kind of weight, do helper airbag springs work as they advertise?

sorry for all the questions.

 

[buRRp]

I would raise the bed up. You don't want to get the weight on it and have the tires rub. About the air bags I think they would help a lot when loaded. You add some more air and your good to go. Might ride a little rougher though.

 

[buRRp]

Here's a pic of a guys truck I work with. He's a welder and made it himself. Looks pretty good.

 

[OldCracker29]

I tend to agree with Lee.