Need Tips - converting roadster to pickup

[MKotar]

I'm converting a 1926 T roadster to a slide in pick up box. I'm wondering if anyone has tips (experience) for removing the turtle deck/trunk of the roadster body.

Thanks, Mike

[Lil Teezy]

The turtle deck on your car may have the floor built in or it may be a separate stamping. Either way it unbolts from the back of the body and the sub frame rails all the way around the perimeter. You may find some body welting in there that you’d want to replace if the turtle deck goes back on and your spare tire mount will also be in the way if it’s in place…

If you don’t have help you can gently pry it up, slide some lumber under it, lift the whole car on stands then string the turtle or the bed up to the rafters in a garage. Once you drop the car out from under it it can be rolled clear and a cart (which I’d recommend having ready to move and store the turtle) or stands can go underneath. Or course two or three extra helpers makes it a lot easier. I’m sure the slip in bed will have its own instructions or logic for mounting but the turtle deck is really only held on by a series of bolts. I’m also not sure how the rear fenders mount on a wood bed, but it should be fairly straightforward…
Good luck, have fun and please post up some pics for us! -Chris, in Boulder

[DanTreace]

Or......just leave the turtle deck on, remove the lid and rear deck panel. Then make a slide in box

Box with rear fenders bolted to the bed sides.

Factory painting the deck before it gets bolted to the runabout subframe.