Need support braces when welding bed?

[ObscureMachine]

I'm about to start replacement of the bed, wheel wells, extensions for filler tubes, etc.. Outer sheetmetal is good. Do I need to tack weld braces across the top of the bed while doing this? It's still on the frame.

 

[langester]

I used the holes for the top and bolted angle iron to the bedsides and then welded my braces to them. I would not attempt the repair without bracing, you might not like the outcome.

Good luck with your project!

 

[ObscureMachine]

I used the holes for the top and bolted angle iron to the bedsides and then welded my braces to them. I would not attempt the repair without bracing, you might not like the outcome.

Good luck with your project!

Thanks for the confirmation. That's what I was thinking.

I haven't measured yet, but if the quarter panels are wonky (I mean, like a 1/4" narrower at the front than the rear, should I "force" those back in place when I'm bracing? Or, leave it alone. It was fine with the hard top on. And, do I need to brace down low somehow?

 

[langester]

I noticed the sides of mine were tapered a little as well. I am not sure if they are supposed to be square or not. Hopefully someone else that know will chime in. I did not support mine down low, only at the top. I did have braces that went vertically in the middle to keep it from sagging. I had the entire floor except the trans hump, I had the wheel wells out as well.

 

[langester]

I will say that my Bronco had a pretty rough life before I got it. The PO and the shop that did work on it in the past had no idea what they were doing so it was no where near original for years.

 

[jmangi62]

Just make sure to either take measurements of the tailgate opening or just leave the tailgate on. I had my rig completely done with paint then when I went to install the tailgate it wouldn't fit, had the opening too narrow, oops. Had to go back in and cut the welds and all, re-adjust everything all over again and finish her up. Trust me, you don't want to make this mistake. Good Luck.