Last month, we showed you the awesome '07 GMC Sierra, which was built by Jared and Reed Fullmer. This month, we'll show you how they got that new fullsize frame to rest on the ground.
Being an experienced truck builder, Jared had no reservations warming up the welders and cutting up a brand-new truck. Working with dependable companies like AVS, Air Lift Easy Street Division, and Slam Specialties, the suspension quickly went from GMC assembly line to custom airbagged in a weekend. Using a welder, plasma cutter, Sawzall, and basic handtools, the Fullmer family had the truck laying frame.
Check out how the duo transformed their truck by bringing the wheels up into the fenders.
Jared and Reed began the install...
Jared and Reed began the install by first removing the bed from the frame. Then, the guys disconnected the fuel lines and wiring to the fuel pump and dropped the gas tank.
Several measurements were...
Several measurements were taken before any cutting was done. You can also see in this picture the factory undercoat that was scraped away and then cleaned with acetone. The entire back-half was scraped and cleaned in order to get to the bare metal.
Out of the boxes from AVS,...
Out of the boxes from AVS, the guys set aside the two 3-gallon air tanks, C-notch, 'bag mounts, Panhard bar, and Belltech 2-inch drop spindles.
Because the guys planned on...
Because the guys planned on towing with the GMC, Jared reinforced the AVS C-notch by welding 1/4-inch steel along the top.
After placing the notch on...
After placing the notch on the framerails, several measurements were taken to guarantee the best fit.
With the measurements taken...
With the measurements taken and the notch trimmed,
...it was time to get out...
...it was time to get out the plasma cutter and cut two holes in the frame.
Using a level to ensure everything...
Using a level to ensure everything was parallel and in line,
Jared welded the notch into...
Jared welded the notch into the frame and then used a Sawzall to cut off the excess frame between the notch.