Hi Everyone!
I have a 2009 standard cab short box and I would like to put a step side box on it. I want the automatic and the 4ltr/6 I have now. I know about the tailgate and gas filler mods, but is there anything else I should know? The big problem is finding a step side box in decent condition. Any suggestions or help?
Thanks
David

 

I briefly looked for a new bed for my ranger as the front of it was rusted out, but I didn't feel like shelling out $500 for one in good condition and then still having to pay to paint it grey and black. Ypu're right stepisdes are hard to find in good condition, I would just keep my eyes out on craigslist and ebay. Good luck with your project and welcome to the forums!

 

Thanks Tom
I am looking at a 1993 stepside truck for 1500.00. I may buy it , keep the stepside and part out the rest.
David

 

You can find Steppies on eBay, sometimes... !
I got mine new on-line from an obsolete Ford Parts House and at a great price.
Keep looking, you can never tell what you will find.

 

Thanks Scrambler

 

No problem, another thing as my mind turns and burns... !

Pre 98 Steppie Bed no not have the hole for the Spare Tire Crank to fit in.

I lost the use of my under bed spare, not a problem for me, tire in bed, done, but if you want the spare tire to crank down when you need it, then you will need a bed that is (I think) 98 or newer; better check that out when you look at any bed... just to make sure !

I think you mentioned the '93, no hole so see if it can be drilled in !

AND another thought... , the side of the bed are plastic or fiberglass, and they are removable, if you didn't know, so MAYBE you can find the side separately and then a center section, the actual bed part.

Think about having the center section cleaned up and even a coating of bed liner, inside and out, before installing but watch the bed mounting holes make sure there isn't too much bed liner in them... PITA, ask me sometime how I know this.

 

I think I can drill that hole for the spare. I will double check of course, It should work because the frame will allow the tire to fit. In the end I think buying that 2003 and taking the bed off and parting out the rest of the truck is still my best bet. It has a 3lt/6 with a good transmission hopefully someone will need. The other expense is I will have to have it all painted. I will keep you informed of my progress. Thanks for you "heads up advice".
David

 

OK, thin metal, big hole, watch out !
There might be a Grommet, I think Plastic push in, easy to break.


I thought you had said it was a '93... and the $1500 price tag for a '93... it must be a nice truck ?
Painting is pricey, SoCal is ridiculous on painting prices. At least get the underside or all of the unseen parts of the Bed Box done before install; save time later on when you want to paint the rest of it !

Pictures are always good !

 

Sounds good! Let us know how it goes,looking forward to seeing the end result.
Tom