How to Convert a Truck to a Dump Truck

Convert an ordinary truck into a dump truck.

Dump trucks are often used in the construction industry, but they can also be used for gardening and transporting heavy loads. An ordinary pick-up truck can be transformed into a dump truck, with the right tools and a bit of time and effort. This job might require more than one person to complete it safely. Prepare by gathering all the materials and keeping them within easy reach. You might need to wear gloves and some overalls if you wish to keep your clothes clean and undamaged.

Things You'll Need

• Variety of wrenches
• Variety of sockets and driver
• Portable welding unit
• Off-the-shelf hydraulic ram rated for 5 tons
• Truck electrical schematic
• Heavy-duty-gauge steel hinge

Instructions

1. Turn off all the electrics, including all the lights.

2. Use the correct wrench to remove the bolts that connect the truck to the frame. Take the truck bed off the frame. Two people may have to do this carefully, to avoid injury.

3. Take the portable welding machine and use it to weld the side-by-side skids. Make sure they are as long as the truck frame.

4. Take the hydraulic ram and fit in between the two skids. Locate the member and weld the frame across it. Check to make sure they appear secure.

5. Check the electrical gauge to find out how much electricity is available for the ram power. Take the electrical power circuit and pull it through into the cab. Connect it to an empty cable, then fit the ram activator switch inside the cab.

6. Line the heavy-gauge hinge up with the frame to the back of the truck. This hinge is important, as it takes the weight of the whole truck bed when it is lifted. Therefore, be careful when welding and make sure it is secure.

7. Put the truck bed back onto the skids. Line the bed up with the ram and the hinge. Make sure it is straight and secure. Take the welding machine and carefully weld the underside of the truck bed onto the hinge. Make sure it is secure.

8. Connect the hydraulic ram to the slide rails. Walk around the truck and make sure everything looks and feels secure. Weld areas that might need extra support.

9. Test the strength of the hinges by loading the truck with heavy goods. Test the hydraulics and the hinge mechanism to see if they have been connected properly.

References

• Converting a Chevy Pick Up Truck