Shortening frame on J10

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Hendo2.5
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Shortening frame on J10

Post by Hendo2.5 »

Has anyone seen a good write up on converting a long box to a short box? I wanted a short bed but was only able to get a long bed. I'm thinking about shortening the frame but am not too sure where to cut or the right way to reinforce it. I believe the bed panels are just trimmed at the front. Thanks
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Stuka
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Re: Shortening frame on J10

Post by Stuka »

When it comes to 74+ J-Trucks, only the front of the bed length changed (Wasn't the case with older trucks).

As for the frame, do you have a photo of your long bed frame? I have never looked at them side by side. But I THINK the length difference is after the frame starts to get wider. So, shortening it may not be as easy as with some other vehicles. But I could easily measure to some points on my truck to compare them to yours.
2017 JKU Rubicon
Pevious Jeeps: 1981 J10, 1975 Cherokee, 2008 JK, 2005 KJ, 1989 XJ

Topic author
Hendo2.5
Posts: 159
Joined: Sun Aug 20, 2017 3:33 pm
Location: Ontario

Re: Shortening frame on J10

Post by Hendo2.5 »

Mine is a 79. Here are some pictures of the measurements from the rear mount
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Topic author
Hendo2.5
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Re: Shortening frame on J10

Post by Hendo2.5 »

I think I have to move the cross member back
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Stuka
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Re: Shortening frame on J10

Post by Stuka »

Did not have a chance to get out to measure yesterday, but I can definitely see differences in front of the tire, like where the front spring hanger is. Behind the axle looks identical.
2017 JKU Rubicon
Pevious Jeeps: 1981 J10, 1975 Cherokee, 2008 JK, 2005 KJ, 1989 XJ
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babywag
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Re: Shortening frame on J10

Post by babywag »

Take a look @ oljeep.com all the service manuals have frame dimension diagrams/info.
Should give you apretty good idea?
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'88 GW (aka Babywag)

nightglide
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Re: Shortening frame on J10

Post by nightglide »

On mine I just moved the front spring hangers forward.....the factory short box hole/dimple is already there. Then I used Ford Ranger shackle hangers for the rear. Then I should just have to cut off the rear of the frame. I havnt put the box on yet but I'm pretty sure its going to work.
77 J10 360/T18/Dana20
Fitech fuel injection
4" Lift....3" body lift....35" ats

nightglide
Posts: 268
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Location: Reno, Nevada

Re: Shortening frame on J10

Post by nightglide »

I'd post pics but have no idea how lol
77 J10 360/T18/Dana20
Fitech fuel injection
4" Lift....3" body lift....35" ats

Topic author
Hendo2.5
Posts: 159
Joined: Sun Aug 20, 2017 3:33 pm
Location: Ontario

Re: Shortening frame on J10

Post by Hendo2.5 »

Does anybody know if the truck would pass safety with a modified frame?
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