In a message dated 10/14/02 1:18:11 PM Eastern Daylight Time,
wilden1@juno.com writes:

> I'd be a little skeptical about the rigid base of the frame after some
> radical cutting.
> I noticed that on most Vans (Type 1 and 2) even the steel panels behind
> the drivers seat back add structural support to the body.
> As for Vanagons I can see that they are engineered differently but I'd
> almost bet that if you get a good look at some Vanagon Single cab trucks
> you'll find compensating structural members added for the pickup body.
> Don't get me wrong, I'd say it would be a fun project to do.
>
>

im planning on welding in some 2" square stock from the rear deck level up to
the front seat pedestals, and then laying some diamond plate on it to make it
level fromt he rear deck level up to the front.   will cut some 'treasure
chest" compartment doors in the slider door and on the drivers side to acess
the storage under the bed. the square stock will stiffen the body as well as
support the bed.

chris