What is the difference in '42-47 beds and fenders, compared to late 30's? I've got a '38 I traded for that's still in Mo, and a decent '46 bed and fenders here.. just wondering. Any info appreciated. Brian
I'm not positive, but I seem to recall that the earlier beds were narrower. No idea about the fenders.
I believe 38 to 41 are the same. 46 inches wide. 46 and 47 are 49 inches wide. The fenders are the same for 40-41 and 46-47, but the indention for the spare is on the drivers side on 46-47. Also the fenders mount 3 inches closer to the bed on 40-41. The length of the bed is the same on 38-47. I think.
Rear fenders are the same '38-'41, '42-'47 fenders are the same. As others have noted the spare tire dimple moved to driver's side in '42, and also the earlier and later fenders differ where they meet the running board. The side panels of the bed are same '38-'47, but as others have noted the later bed is 3" wider. Ford widened the beds because of the increasing amount of building products that left the lumberyard in a 4' x 8' sheet. A piece of plywood will lie flat in the later bed but not the '38-'41 bed.
I meant closer to the cab. I had to redrill fender mounting holes 3 inches forward when I used 47 bed sides on my 41.