checking cab for straightness
 

How is the best way to check my pickup cab for straightness?

My Dad handed this truck down to me, he always thought it wasn't quite right.
Thinks cab/frame is bent. I've asked earlier about checking the frame, but how is a good way to check the cab?

And then, how to straighten it...I was thinking that with the roof, doors and windshield/rear window removed, it could be straightened with a Porta-Power jack. It seems that with this stuff all removed, it could be put into shape reasonably easy.

Problem is, when Dad purchased it some 30 years ago, it had been rolled down into a holler. And retrieved by that owner, who had it sitting in his garage with no time to work on it. It has been restored after we got it, but he never thought it was quite right.

I'm guessing I need the right measuring points, then see if doors fit properly...? Not sure

Re: checking cab for straightness
 

Do not remove the doors or the windshield frame they are the jigs which would indicate how true your cab is . If the windshield opens and closes as it should and the doors fit correctly and the swage lines line up then the cab is straight enough . Hood to cab fit is dictated by correctly shimming the body blocks and radiator . If this does not resolve fittig issues then the frame is bent . This normally occurs in way of the rear motor mount where the frame is bent down . The learned gentlemen on The Barn will tell you how to fix this .The steel doors are all steel and can be "wrung" to improve lower door fit .

John in improving weather Suffolk County England .

Re: checking cab for straightness
 

What John said. If frame is bent it can be straightened. even with the body still on the frame. I have a straightening jig. Removing body and taking it to a frame shop is best way but sometimes that is not an option. ken

Re: checking cab for straightness
 

Reminds ME of ME, I walk crookedy & lean this way & that way & "they" cain't figger out HOW to straighten me.---I cain't even figger out when BUMPERS & TAIL LIGHTS are STRAIGHT????
Bill Laughable

Re: checking cab for straightness
 

Great advice above but since it has been restored, I'm going to suggest you spend a few evenings and pull the cab & bed. It really will not take as long as you might think, and you will know for certain.