EPISODE 122

Fabrication is the cornerstone of the custom truck world. “Fabricate This” brings the minds of fabricators onto the pages of your favorite magazine. Read along and try to keep up. Our goal is to publish as many pertinent questions and answers as possible. If you have a question, send it in and we will do our best to answer it.

CAMAR-O

So I was wondering how you make Camaro-style bumpers for the trucks I see you and other builders doing? Are they built by hand or modified stock bumpers?
—Thanks, Jason Moss

Every builder has different techniques. I use both methods that you mentioned in your question. A lot of times I’ll just use the curved end off a later ’60s car, like the Camaro, Mustang or similarly shaped, thinner bumper. Then I roll or bend the center section to match ends. I usually use 14-gauge steel for the center because it’s close to the same thickness. You can use 16- or 18-gauge. They’re kind of flimsy, but a lot easier to shape. Next, I fit pieces then tack them in place. I remove pieces when solid, and then finish welding and metal finish the truck. You can either paint or plate the bumper. Make sturdy brackets to hold the bumper so vibration doesn’t crack or ruin it.

REPAIR OR REPLACE

I recently purchased a ’73 F-150. It was wrecked in the rear corner behind the rear wheel. I’d like to replace that section or maybe the whole bedside. What do you think would be best with the least amount of work?
—Aaron Dale

Usually people try to find a bed in better condition, but lately clean beds for older trucks are getting harder to find, so I feel your pain. I’ve repaired beds both ways, and the easiest method is to replace the entire bed side, which involves drilling out all spot welds that attach the bed side. After you remove the panel, grind down all of the welds so the new panel fits easily. Drill holes to plug weld the panel in place, measure and align the panel perfectly before welding. Then grind the welds smooth. Next, do any bodywork where it’s needed. Lastly, primer it, block sand and then paint. Now you have a clean truck again!
Good luck, Bob out!

THANKS FOR READING, SEE YOU NEXT MONTH.

To submit a question for the “Fabricate This” column for either Bob Grant or Eric Saliba, please email Fabthis@streettrucksmag.com, or contact them directly via Grantkustoms.com for Bob, or Friendlychopshop.com for Eric. Stay tuned next month and keep the sparks flying!

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