Stock sheet metal bedsides without torch and weld

[henryj10]

Whats the best way without a torch to remove a 6ft ranger bedside. secondly can you use self tapping screws to install them like the fiberglass ones. I don't have a welder nor do I have a torch.

Thanks
Jason

 

[canyoncritter]

drill out all 642 spot welds.and dont miss the ones under the tail light cut outs. robbie the spot welding robot was set on speed freak when they did the bedsides. It's "fun" to say the lest. Last time I did it, took me about 5hrs to get all the spot welds and a hand full of bits.


spot welding them back in would be best.I wouldnt use self taping screws myself id use nuts,washers and bolts.

one problem you might run in to is the inner fender part.take a look under your's and you will see that it attaches to the "tub" of the bed and the bedside skin.and with out it, the bedside might be a bit flimsy....

here is the inner fender part Im talking about.

 

[sloue]

i am not a body man . but my son is, and there is a special drill bit you can get to drill the spot welds out.self taping screws and panel epoxy.will last for a bit but will start to come unhinged in a short time . the boy says it will be good from afar but far from good. best off to remove your bed sides your self get the new one lined up then see if a local body shop will tack them on . my son figers you can save lots this way.one more thing is that some after market panels take allot of messing with to get to fit right. hope this helps.

 

[1badexplorer]

I did my bedside and the welder ran out of gas and I needed the truck soI used self shooters. It's been fine and has been on for almost a year with no problems. I would say screws will work if thats all you have.

 

[IRKillroy]

klinkos are good tools to hold it in place... the tool you would want to remove the spot welds would be a spot weld drill bit.

Here's one option for you.

the use of Klinkos
The klinkos themselves... have fun


it's always good to have a sawzall with you to cut parts you don't know how to get to off while at the junk-yard... that way you can figure it out when you have more time.