fits make: Chevrolet, Gmc. year: 1954-59.

( Brand: Oer Authorized ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: 110114 ), ( Part Type: Angle Bed Strip ), ( Item Height: 81 ), ( Item Weight: 13 )
The **OER 110114 Bed Angle Strips (1954 1959 Chevrolet/GMC & Step-Side, Raw)** are a meticulously crafted set of aftermarket bed angle supports designed to restore and enhance the structural integrity of classic half-ton and three-quarter-ton pickup trucks from the iconic 1954 through 1959 model years. These strips are engineered to replace the original, often worn or corroded bed angle brackets that connect the truck bed to the frame rails, ensuring a secure and level bed installation while preventing sagging, shifting, or premature wear on the bed itself. Constructed from high-quality, heavy-duty steel, these raw strips are precision-cut to fit the exact contours of the 1954 59 Chevrolet and GMC Step-Side chassis, offering a perfect alignment with the factory mounting points. Whether you're restoring a vintage workhorse, preparing for a custom bed liner installation, or simply reinforcing the bed for added durability, these angle strips provide a robust and reliable solution. Their raw, uncoated finish allows for customization whether you prefer painting them to match your truck s color scheme or applying a protective coating for added corrosion resistance. Ideal for both DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics, these strips are a straightforward yet essential upgrade that bridges the gap between classic truck performance and modern-day reliability.
### **Pros and Cons of Buying OER 110114 (1954-59 Chevrolet/GMC Bed Angle Strips, 1/2" & 3/4" Stepside, Raw)**
#### **Pros:**1. **Authentic Fitment** These bed angle strips are designed specifically for 1954-1959 Chevrolet and GMC trucks, ensuring a proper fit without modification. They are built to match the original factory dimensions, which helps maintain structural integrity and alignment.
2. **Improved Load Capacity** The bed angle strips reinforce the rear of the truck bed, distributing weight more evenly across the frame. This can help prevent sagging, especially when carrying heavy or uneven loads, such as tools, equipment, or cargo.
3. **Prevents Bed Warping** Over time, the rear of a truck bed can develop a downward slope due to weight or rust. These strips help counteract this by providing additional support to the bed s corners, keeping it level and functional.
4. **Raw (Unfinished) Material** The strips are sold in a raw, unfinished state, meaning you can paint or coat them to match your truck s existing finish. This allows for customization and ensures they blend seamlessly with the rest of the vehicle.
5. **Durability** Made from heavy-duty steel, these strips are designed to withstand the stresses of regular use, including towing, hauling, and general wear. Proper installation can extend the lifespan of your truck bed.
6. **Easy Installation (With Proper Tools)** While installation requires welding or bolting (depending on the method), the parts are straightforward to fit. Many owners with basic mechanical skills can handle the job, though professional help may be advisable for precise alignment.
7. **Cost-Effective Reinforcement** Compared to full bed replacements or extensive frame repairs, these strips offer a relatively inexpensive way to reinforce a weakened bed without sacrificing functionality.
8. **Compatibility with Aftermarket Mods** Since these strips are designed for classic trucks, they can be used alongside other aftermarket parts (e.g., bed liners, toolboxes, or lift kits) without conflicts.
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#### **Cons:**1. **Requires Welding or Bolting** Installation is not a simple bolt-on process. If you don t have welding experience, you ll need to hire a professional welder, which adds to the cost. Bolting options may exist, but they may not be as secure as welding.
2. **Time-Consuming Installation** Properly aligning and securing the strips can take several hours, especially if you re unfamiliar with the process. This may require disassembling parts of the truck bed or tailgate.
3. **Potential for Misalignment** If not installed correctly, the strips could cause uneven weight distribution or even damage to the truck s suspension or frame if they re not perfectly aligned with the existing bed structure.
4. **Weight Addition** While the strips add structural support, they also increase the truck s overall weight slightly. For older trucks with weaker suspensions, this could affect handling or fuel efficiency.
5. **Limited Availability of Parts** Since these are OEM-style replacement parts for older trucks, they may not be as widely stocked as modern aftermarket components. You may need to order from specialty suppliers or vintage truck parts dealers.
6. **Rust Risk if Not Properly Treated** If the strips are not coated or painted after installation, they could rust over time, especially in harsh environments. Raw steel left exposed will degrade faster than coated or galvanized alternatives.
7. **May Not Fix Underlying Issues** If the truck s frame or bed is severely rusted or damaged beyond the bed angle area, these strips alone won t resolve structural problems. A full inspection may be necessary before purchasing.
8. **Potential for Bed Leveling Disruption** If your truck s bed was already slightly angled (e.g., from sagging), these strips might not fully correct the issue without additional adjustments, such as lifting the tailgate or frame.
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### **Conclusion:**The **OER 110114 bed angle strips** are a **highly practical and cost-effective solution** for reinforcing the rear of a 1954-1959 Chevrolet or GMC truck bed. They address common issues like sagging, uneven weight distribution, and potential warping, making them ideal for owners who want to **preserve their truck s original integrity** while improving load-bearing capacity.
However, the **installation process is not trivial** it demands either welding skills or access to a professional welder. If you re not comfortable with DIY metalwork, factor in the labor cost. Additionally, these strips are best suited for **structural reinforcement rather than cosmetic restoration**, so they work best when paired with other maintenance efforts (e.g., rust treatment, bed lining).
For **classic truck enthusiasts** who prioritize **functionality, longevity, and authenticity**, these strips are a **strong recommendation**. For those seeking a **quick, no-effort fix**, they may not be the best choice due to the labor-intensive installation.
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### **Final Recommendation:** **Buy these bed angle strips if:**- You own a 1954-1959 Chevrolet/GMC truck with a sagging or weakened bed.
- You re willing to invest time (or money for professional installation) to reinforce the bed properly.
- You want to maintain or restore the truck s original structural integrity without full bed replacement.
- You plan to use the truck for heavy hauling, towing, or long-term storage of equipment.
**Avoid them if:**- You lack welding experience and cannot afford professional installation.
- Your truck s frame or bed has severe rust or damage beyond the bed angle area.
- You re looking for a purely cosmetic upgrade rather than a functional one.
- You prefer a simpler, bolt-on solution over a more involved modification.
**Best Practices Before Purchase:**1. **Inspect your truck s bed and frame** for rust, warping, or other damage. Address major issues first.
2. **Check for alternative solutions** (e.g., bed supports, lift kits) if welding isn t an option.
3. **Order from a reputable supplier** to ensure authenticity and quality.
4. **Plan for post-installation treatment** (painting, rustproofing) to prevent future corrosion.
5. **Consider consulting a classic truck restoration expert** if you re unsure about installation.
For most serious owners of these vintage trucks, **these bed angle strips are a worthwhile investment** they strike a balance between **cost, durability, and authenticity**, making them one of the best reinforcement options available.
Applications:1954-1959 Chevrolet Pickup Truck Stepside Short bed 1954-1959 GMC specs Confused about wood bed parts terminology and what you might need to add or replace. 1954-59 Chevrolet GMC; Bed Angle Strips; 1/2 3/4 Ton; Short Bed; Stepside; Raw Steel; Printable: Reproduction of the original angle strips that attach side boards on and GMC Pickup Stepside short bed model's. Features pre-punched square holes in the original bolt pattern. Sold in pairs.
The link below to find answers:Truck Bed wood - A Beginners Guide. These angle moldings are bolted to the wood and spot welded bed side. Strips are 1-1/2 wide x 1 tall and roll formed from 18 gauge raw printable steel.