For classic Chevy C10 pickups from 1963 to 1972, upgrading from a long bed to a short bed can improve maneuverability and style. This guide highlights five prominent short bed conversion kits, focusing on ease of install, fitment accuracy, and build quality. Each kit is designed to convert a long-bed frame into a 115-inch wheelbase short bed configuration, with some variations for 3/4-ton models. The selections below reflect a range of options from frame shortening kits to complete bed conversion sets, helping you compare value and performance for American work trucks and cruisers.
| Product | Brand | Wheelbase Impact | Vehicle Fit |
|---|---|---|---|
| maXpeedingrods Frame Shortening Set | maXpeedingrods | 128″ to 115″ | Chevy C10 1963-1972; may fit 3/4-ton coil spring trucks with mounts changes |
| Brothers Trucks LTSC37267-71 | Brothers | Long to Short bed conversion | 2WD C10/C15 |
| Speedway 73-87 GM Truck Disc Brake Kit | Speedway Motors | Brake upgrade, not wheelbase change | General GM 73-87 trucks; 12″ rotors, calipers, hoses |
| Brothers Trucks LTSC38784-87 | Brothers | Long to Short bed conversion | 2WD C10/C15 |
Note: This overview focuses on short bed conversion capabilities and related components. Always verify fitment with your exact truck model, bed style, and axle setup before purchasing. The products below provide a mix of frame modification kits and complete conversion solutions, along with upgraded braking components that may accompany or complement bed conversions.
maXpeedingrods Short Bed Conversion Kit
The maXpeedingrods Frame Shortening Set is designed for Chevy C10 trucks from 1963 to 1972. Its primary function is converting a 128″ wheelbase to 115″ by shortening the frame. The kit is primarily marketed for 1/4-ton heavy plates and is also noted to fit certain 3/4-ton coil spring configurations, with cab mount modifications required for 1967-1972 3/4-ton trucks. It is not compatible with 133″ wheelbase trucks or 4×4 variants. This kit is suitable for builders seeking a solid frame base for a short-bed conversion without changing the cab structure extensively.
Key considerations: ensure you have or can source appropriate cab mounts if converting 3/4-ton models; confirm wheelbase goals align with a 115″ short bed conversion; assess required modifications if your truck has unique factory options.
Brothers LTSC37267-71 Long Bed To Short Bed Conversion
This Brothers Trucks LTSC37267-71 kit is tailored to convert long-bed 2WD C10/C15 trucks to a short-bed configuration. The kit includes laser-etched steel templates with all holes clearly marked, facilitating accurate drilling and alignment of components. It also provides steel inner C-channel braces to reinforce the frame during the transition. The design emphasizes ease of install and repeatable accuracy for classic truck restorations and hot-rodding projects.
Considerations: verify your exact bed length and wheelbase, check for compatibility with aftermarket sensors or brackets, and ensure access to required tools for template-guided drilling. The included braces help maintain rigidity during the conversion process.
Speedway 73-87 GM Truck Disc Brake Kit
The Speedway Motors GM Truck Disc Brake Kit for 1973-1987 GM trucks focuses on a complete brake upgrade rather than a wheelbase modification. The kit includes 12″ drilled and slotted rotors, large single-bore red powder-coated calipers with pads, as well as rubber hoses and banjo bolts with crush washers. This setup is designed to improve braking performance and reliability, which can be advantageous when shifting to a shorter wheelbase and heavier front end that may come with short-bed conversions.
Key considerations: ensure compatibility with your existing front suspension geometry and hub pattern, verify rotor thickness and caliper clearance with wheels, and plan for proper brake fluid routing and hardware replacement during installation.
Brothers LTSC38784-87 Long Bed To Short Bed Conversion
The Brothers LTSC38784-87 kit mirrors the concept of the LTSC37267-71, designed to convert long-bed trucks to short-bed layouts for 2WD C10/C15 models. It includes laser-etched templates, clearly marked holes, and steel inner C-channel braces to strengthen the frame during the transformation. By providing precise templates and robust bracing, this kit supports straightforward alignment and reliable structural integrity through the conversion process.
Practical considerations: confirm compatibility with your truck’s year range and configuration, inspect the bed-to-frame interface for any aftermarket modifications, and budget for potential additional hardware or cab-mount adjustments if your truck has non-stock components.
Buying Guide: Key Considerations for 73-87 Short Bed Conversions
- Vehicle compatibility: Confirm year range, cab type, bed length, and wheelbase requirements for your specific C10 or 2WD GM truck. Some kits target 128″ wheelbases, while others are designed to standardize to 115″ with variations for 3/4-ton configurations.
- Frame integrity and reinforcement: Short bed conversions involve cutting and re-welding frame sections. Look for kits with reinforced inner C-channel braces and laser-etched templates to minimize misalignment and ensure structural integrity after the conversion.
- Templates and accuracy: Laser-etched or clearly marked templates help ensure precise hole placement and alignment. This reduces the risk of misdrilled holes and misaligned bed mounts during installation.
- Compatibility with drivetrain and brakes: If upgrading braking components (as with the Speedway Kit), verify rotor size, caliper clearance, and hose routing to avoid interference with wheels, suspension, or bed mounting points.
- Tools and labor requirements: Assess the required tools, welding experience, and potential need for cab-mount changes or additional brackets. Some kits assume a medium to advanced level of mechanical skill or access to a professional shop.
- Weight distribution and handling: Shorter wheelbases can alter weight distribution and handling characteristics. Consider tires, suspension components, and steering geometry to maintain road stability.
- Budget and future plans: In addition to the conversion kit, plan for ancillary parts such as mount adapters, bushings, cab mounts, and paint. A comprehensive plan helps prevent surprise costs during assembly.
- Documentation and support: Look for kits with clear installation guides, customer support, and return policies. Access to technical advice can reduce installation time and errors.
This article avoids subjective judgments and presents options based on product features and stated fitment. When choosing a kit, prioritize exact match to your truck’s year and model, verify available space for any braking upgrades, and ensure you have the tools and expertise to perform a safe, durable conversion.