How do I Remove a C1500 Truck Bed?

by Russell Wood

The truck bed found on a 1988 through 1998 Chevrolet C1500 truck, a separate component from the cab, mounts to the frame. Chevy designs these beds to carry large loads; in the process, they can also become abused and damaged. When the bed does become damaged, you may find it easier to remove the bed from the truck to perform the necessary repairs. You may also need to remove the bed to change the truck's fuel pump. In either case, removing the bed should take about 30 minutes.

Step 1

Open the tailgate at a 45-degree angle to the bed floor. Unhook the side straps on the tailgate, then lift one corner of the gate until it comes free from the bed. Pull the tailgate away from the truck, and set it in a safe place.

Step 2

Unscrew the taillights from the bed using a Phillips screwdriver. Unplug the wiring from the lights, and push them through the bed until you have freed them of the bed floor.

Step 3

Open the gas door. Remove the three screws holding the gas door in place using a 3/8-inch ratchet and star-head-head sockets. Push the gas filler neck down and away from the bed.

Step 4

Unbolt the four bolts on each side of the bed (eight total) holding the bed to the frame from the underside of the truck using the 1/2-inch ratchet, extension and socket.

Step 5

Put each of your assistants in one corner of the bed, and have them help you lift the bed straight up and move it back away from the truck, taking care not the catch the bed on the tires. Set the bed on the ground.

References

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