2024 Chevy 4500 LCF Build

[Sixinarow]

In March of 2024 I picked up a 2024 Chevy 4500 LCF crew cab, auto, 6.6L V8 gas, 176" wheelbase, 4x2, from Lincoln, NE. I drove it back to Denver with my 10 year-old son.

Eventual goal is a 4x4 conversion, long-arm air suspension, and a foam-panel camper.

Here it is shortly after bringing it home. I bought some mudflaps before leaving Lincoln and mounted them with a 2x4 and straps for the drive home. As of this pic I'd already mounted them with 2x2" tube.


I'm not one for build threads, so this probably won't turn into one, at least not as detailed as other build threads. I just don't feel like documenting every little thing I do, however, I have taken photos of my progress so far. I've drawn up some stuff but a lot of it is just in my head and it changes as it goes.

So, I'll just post some things I've done and things I'm working on.

The very first thing, after the mud flaps, was to install a catalytic converter strap while I built some cat cages out of 3/8"x3" flat bar. It's visible in some photos.

I added USB plugs for the kids.


Next was adding a fridge! It's kind of a work in progress. I need to mount it and finish the bracket.


I also added a tube for my RAM mount Sirius XM radio unit. It's just a piece of painted 1/2" EMT with a couple tabs mounted to the console bolts.


I also played around with some CAD for a new front bumper. That's still a work in progress.


I added a modified NAPA twin-piston air compressor, a 2-gallon tank, and a 3-note air horn.




After that I started on the bed. It is 4"x2" tube runners and 4"x2" crossmembers. It is connected to the bed, temporarily, by six 2" straps.

I'm building a drawer between the frame rails.

 

[Sixinarow]

Continued...

The drawer's lid is fixed to the frame and I'll add weather stripping to keep out dirt and water. I added 1/2" angle above and below the drawer slides to somewhat box them in from the elements. The hatch is on hinges and is for access to the fuel pump and tank fittings. I'll have a removeable panel in the bed, as well. The drawer and lid will be sealed and painted.

I also built a hitch and started the rear end. The hitch is mounted to the frame and the drawer is mounted to the bed. The tail light assemblies are mounted to the hitch but will be relocated to the rear skirt.








Next is the spring mounts. I debated going with a pivoting system but like the spring-mount idea better. I just need to figure out what types of springs to use. There will be a 1/2" HDPE strip between the bed and truck rails.



More photos and info as it progresses...

 

[SkiFreak]

I also played around with some CAD for a new front bumper.

Cardboard Assisted Design... I love it and use it myself.

You obviously have some very decent fabrication skills, as what you have done so far is looking great.
Looking forward to seeing your progress on this build.

 

[Sixinarow]

Cardboard Assisted Design... I love it and use it myself.

You obviously have some very decent fabrication skills, as what you have done so far is looking great.
Looking forward to seeing your progress on this build.

Yes, CAD is awesome. You can see in the pic that it was raining. The next day I worked on the bumper I had to switch from CAD to CPBAD, corrugated plastic board aided design, as my cardboard was a little wet.

Thanks for the compliments. My welds are so-so but they're improving. The fabrication is the most fun; making it my own and having a one-of-a-kind truck. So far, the only thing I didn't cut or fab myself is the drop-down brackets for the hitch. I have a 50-amp plasma but that is 3/8" plate and didn't want to mess with it.

Once I get the spring mounts done I'll be able to continue with the bed.