sheet metal beds

i just started the sheet metal work on my bed, and was wondering what i need to use to get the seems nice and clean? seem sealer, or should i just tack weld them until its solid and then begin grinding? any input or some pics would be killer, thanks

what are u gonna do over top of it? paint or bedliner? if bedliner..def. dont waste your time welding it up..just seam seal it and be done..if your carefull with your seam sealer and tape it off nice it will look good painted over too...

you could break a 1" or so lip behind the sides and drill holes and spot weld them in so you dont have any welds showing after you grind them flush. or if youre planning on seam sealing the edges dont waste your time grinding alot b/c itll cover it esp. if youre doing a bedliner. it depends on the look you want and how much time you want to spend on it really

what seam sealer is best for paint?

3m ultra pro seam sealer works great. lay a nice even bead, then smooth it out with enamel reducer.

^ 3M Fast 'N Firm ^
http://froogle.google.com/froogle_cluster?q=AUTO+seam+sealer&pid=4858015286349787785&oid=5796602373808643485&btnG=Search+Froogle&oi=froogler&lmode=&addr=&scoring=p&hl=en

Edited: 1/15/2006 10:40:31 AM by clean cut creations

Edited: 1/15/2006 10:35:50 AM by clean cut creations

I welded the seams solid then ground them back with a round deburring bit. I then filled the seems with bodyfiller.I spread the filler then swiped it with lacquer thinner to smooth it. Sanded it smooth primed and prepped for paint. I did this work in '03 and so far no cracks. Here is a pic:CLICK HERE TO SEE BUILD PICS OF THIS MITSU

I use Plastimix 2 part flowable seam sealer it flows out nice and doesnt have to be sanded works real well if ur bedlining. If ur gonna paint it slick body filler works best as Jon stated

I've been debating what to do with my bed. I'm just curious if anyone has had the problem of their beds flexing and cracking?????

When you guys are using thinner to smooth the filler or sealer do you use a rag or dab it on your finger and use your finger to smooth it?