I recently picked up a nice 2000 International 4700 with a DT466E/Allison MT643, with what I'll call a 14' stake bed for lack of better term (see my other thread on the bed if interested). Truck is 32K GWVR, air brakes, A/C, cruise, radio, everything I wanted except an air ride seat (which may come later.) I'm beginning the process of upfitting the truck for my construction business and farm. It's primary use will be a tow vehicle with the ability to haul materials/tools/equipment on the bed. For the time being I'm leaving the bed as-is, but may modify it down the road. The 3000lb lift gate has already proved to be quite handy. First order of business is a hitch, then tie downs, front recovery points, fix the tool boxes, etc. Here's a pic of the truck when I bought it:
As to the hitch, here is what I'm starting with:
Plan to weld on a plate for a pinlte hitch and 2" receiver. Since it'll be a lot of out of position welding and I'm not very good at stick I think I'm going to pick up a Hobart Handler 140 wire welder (maybe a Lincoln would be better?). I realize these are pretty critical welds so I'm going to practice with it plenty before attempting to weld the plate on. I'll post up some more pics as I get it done.
As to the hitch, here is what I'm starting with:
Plan to weld on a plate for a pinlte hitch and 2" receiver. Since it'll be a lot of out of position welding and I'm not very good at stick I think I'm going to pick up a Hobart Handler 140 wire welder (maybe a Lincoln would be better?). I realize these are pretty critical welds so I'm going to practice with it plenty before attempting to weld the plate on. I'll post up some more pics as I get it done.
