73-87 Chevy Stepside Truck Beds: Your Guide to Finding the Perfect One
Finding the right 1973-1987 Chevy stepside truck bed can be a challenge, but it's a rewarding quest for any classic truck enthusiast. This guide will help you navigate the search, understand what to look for, and ultimately, find the perfect stepside bed to complete your project.
What Makes a 73-87 Chevy Stepside Bed So Special?
The '73-'87 Chevy stepside beds represent a distinct era of American truck design. Their unique styling, characterized by the prominent side steps integrated into the bed, sets them apart from other truck styles. These trucks evoke a sense of nostalgia and rugged charm, making them highly sought after by collectors and restoration enthusiasts. The availability of parts, while not as plentiful as for some later models, is still reasonably good, making restoration projects feasible.
Factors to Consider When Buying a 73-87 Chevy Stepside Bed
Several key factors influence the value and condition of a used Chevy stepside bed. Before you buy, carefully consider these:
1. Year and Model: While the overall design remains consistent from 1973-1987, subtle differences exist between model years. Some years may have slightly different dimensions or mounting points. Knowing the specific year of your truck chassis is crucial for a proper fit.
2. Condition: This is paramount. Look for rust, dents, and damage. Minor surface rust can often be repaired, but significant rust-through requires extensive work. Inspect the bed's wood floor, supports, and tailgate carefully. Check for cracks, rot, or significant damage.
3. Completeness: Does the bed come with all necessary parts? This includes the tailgate, bed sides, fenders, and any mounting hardware. Missing parts can significantly increase the cost and time needed for restoration.
4. Price: Research the market price for similar beds in comparable condition. Online classifieds, auction sites, and forums are great resources for price comparison. Be wary of deals that seem too good to be true – they often indicate underlying issues.
Where to Find a 73-87 Chevy Stepside Bed For Sale
Several avenues exist for finding a stepside bed:
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Online Classifieds: Sites like Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, and eBay are excellent starting points. Be sure to use precise search terms like "73-87 Chevy stepside truck bed," specifying the year if possible.
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Truck Parts Websites: Dedicated truck parts websites often list used parts, including beds. These sites may offer a broader selection and potentially better descriptions than general classifieds.
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Classic Truck Forums: Engaging with online communities dedicated to classic Chevy trucks can be extremely helpful. Members often share information about parts for sale and offer advice on finding specific parts.
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Local Truck Parts Yards: Visiting local salvage yards can yield surprising finds. You might discover a hidden gem at a fraction of the online cost.
Restoring Your 73-87 Chevy Stepside Bed: A Step-by-Step Guide
Restoring a classic stepside bed can be a rewarding project. Here's a basic outline:
- Assessment: Thoroughly inspect the bed for damage and rust. Document everything with photos.
- Parts Acquisition: Source any missing or damaged parts.
- Rust Repair: Address rust using appropriate techniques like grinding, sanding, and applying rust-resistant primer and paint.
- Wood Floor Replacement: Often necessary, replacing the wood floor involves measuring, cutting, and installing new wood.
- Bodywork: Repair dents and damage using techniques like filler and bodywork.
- Painting: Prepare the bed for paint by sanding and priming. Choose a high-quality paint designed for outdoor use.
- Reassembly: Carefully reassemble the bed, making sure everything aligns correctly.
Case Study: A Successful Stepside Bed Restoration
One enthusiast, John Doe, recently restored a 1978 Chevy stepside bed that he found in rough condition. He documented his project online, sharing detailed photos and insights. His meticulous work transformed a rusty, neglected bed into a beautiful piece that perfectly complements his restored truck. This shows the potential rewards of taking on a restoration project.
Conclusion: Finding Your Dream 73-87 Chevy Stepside Bed
Finding the perfect 73-87 Chevy stepside bed requires patience and careful research. By understanding the key factors to consider and using the resources available, you can significantly increase your chances of finding the perfect bed to complete your classic truck project. Remember to always prioritize condition and completeness to minimize restoration headaches and costs. Good luck with your search!