If I have a LWB second gen 3500, extended cab, and I want to put a 12' dump body on it, am I going to need a longer wheel base? I mean, I suppose this means that I will have 4' behind the frame which I would think can be fixed by extending the frame, but what about the "balance" of the dump body over the rear wheels?
I have seen Rams with 12' flat beds on them, but I don't think with an extended cab.
What do I need to know about setting a dump body on a 3500?
The dump body is currently on an F350 gasser. I REALLY want to go diesel.

Thanks,
Chris

 

Most of the extended frame trucks that I've seen were C&C and I don't think that C&C was available w/ the extended cab for most years. Not sure about the real recent years. You'll probably need to cut the frame in front of the rear wheels and stretch your frame to get the balance right. Frame, drive shaft, brake lines, e-brake cables, wiring should cover most of it.

 

I don't know that I want to do that, as I would have to extend the frame about 30" to get the correct wheelbase for that size bed. I did some more research and from the beginning of the bed to the center of the wheel it's about 55", which is less than half of the dump bed, at 72". From what I have read: http://dodgeram.info/2001/dimensions.html, the second gen trucks never came with a wheelbase that would accomodate an extended cab AND a 12' body of any kind.
Bummer.

Thanks,
Chris

 

How about shortening the dump?

 

chris, what's up man are you comin to morgans corner to pull this year?

they have posted the dates on there site MCTTP.com

 

Nah, I don't think I want to take that on. I'll just wait until I find an engine I can swap into this F350 or a C&C for the right price.

Thanks,
Chris