A bobbed truck is a modified vehicle that has had part of its frame removed, typically by shortening the rear section. This modification makes the truck lighter, more maneuverable, and better suited for off-road use. Bobbed trucks are commonly seen in military surplus vehicles, heavy-duty trucks, and off-road builds.
If you’re interested in what a bobbed truck is, its benefits, and how to modify one, this guide will cover everything you need to know.
What Does Bobbed Truckâ Mean?
A bobbed truck refers to a truck with a shortened wheelbase. The process of bobbingâ involves removing an axle, cutting the frame, and modifying the suspension. This creates a more compact, agile truck that maintains its power but has a smaller footprint.
Bobbed trucks are often based on military 6×6 trucks, such as the M35 Deuce and a Half” or the M923 5-ton truck. These vehicles are modified by removing the third axle to make them a 4×4 instead of a 6×6.
Why Bob a Truck? Benefits and Advantages
Bobbed trucks offer several advantages, making them popular among off-road enthusiasts and collectors.
1. Improved Maneuverability
Shortening the wheelbase makes the truck easier to turn and navigate in tight spaces, especially on trails and rough terrain.
2. Lighter Weight
By removing an axle and reducing the frame length, the overall weight of the truck decreases, improving fuel efficiency and acceleration.
3. Better Off-Road Performance
A bobbed truck has a shorter wheelbase and better ground clearance, making it ideal for rock crawling, mudding, and off-road adventures.
4. Unique Look and Customization
Bobbed trucks have a rugged and aggressive appearance. Many owners customize them with oversized tires, lift kits, and aftermarket accessories.
5. Lower Maintenance Costs
Fewer axles and a simplified drivetrain mean fewer parts to maintain or replace, reducing overall upkeep costs.
Common Trucks That Get Bobbed
While any truck can be bobbed, certain models are more popular due to their size and capabilities.
1. Military Trucks
Military surplus trucks are commonly bobbed due to their heavy-duty construction and availability. Popular models include:
-
M35 Deuce and a Half (2.5-ton, 6×6)
-
M923 5-Ton Truck (larger and more powerful than the M35)
-
M939 Series Trucks
2. Heavy-Duty Commercial Trucks
Some commercial vehicles, like International, Freightliner, and Ford F-750, are bobbed to create custom off-road rigs or expedition vehicles.
3. Pickup Trucks
Occasionally, people bob full-size pickup trucks, such as the Ford F-250, Dodge Ram 2500, or Chevy Silverado 3500, for better off-road capabilities.
How to Bob a Truck: Step-by-Step Guide
Bobbing a truck is a complex modification that requires mechanical expertise, welding, and custom fabrication.
1. Choose the Right Truck
Start with a 6×6 military truck or heavy-duty vehicle that has the size and power needed for bobbing.
2. Remove the Rear Axle
The process involves cutting away the third axle and shortening the drivetrain to convert it into a 4×4 configuration.
3. Cut and Shorten the Frame
The truck’s frame needs to be cut down to the desired length. This step requires precision welding and reinforcement to maintain structural integrity.
4. Modify the Suspension
Adjusting or replacing the suspension ensures that the truck maintains proper ride height and handling after the modifications.
5. Install New Rear Components
Once the frame is shortened, a new rear bumper, bed, or custom flatbed can be installed to match the new size.
6. Upgrade Tires and Wheels
Most bobbed trucks get large off-road tires and beadlock wheels for enhanced traction and stability.
7. Test and Tune the Truck
Before hitting the road or trails, the truck needs to be tested for safety, drivability, and durability.
Are Bobbed Trucks Street Legal?
In many places, bobbed trucks can be registered for road use, but it depends on local laws. Factors that affect street legality include:
-
Proper lighting and signals
-
Brake system modifications
-
Emissions compliance
-
Registration as a custom or modified vehicle
Always check with your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or transport authority before driving a bobbed truck on public roads.
How Much Does It Cost to Bob a Truck?
The cost of bobbing a truck varies depending on factors like:
-
Truck purchase price (military surplus trucks range from $5,000 to $20,000)
-
Custom fabrication and welding ($2,000 – $10,000)
-
Suspension and drivetrain modifications ($1,500 – $5,000)
-
New tires and wheels ($2,000 – $6,000)
-
Paint, accessories, and interior work ($1,000 – $5,000)
A DIY bobbed truck build can cost $10,000 to $30,000, while professional conversions may cost more.
Who Should Own a Bobbed Truck?
Bobbed trucks aren’t for everyone, but they’re great for:
-
Off-road enthusiasts looking for a unique and capable rig.
-
Collectors of military surplus vehicles.
-
Expedition travelers needing a rugged, go-anywhere truck.
-
Custom truck builders who enjoy unique modifications.
A bobbed truck is a modified heavy-duty vehicle with a shortened frame and fewer axles. These trucks are lighter, more maneuverable, and perform exceptionally well off-road.
If you’re considering bobbing a truck, make sure to research the process, costs, and legal requirements. Whether for off-road adventures or as a show-stopping build, a bobbed truck is a unique and powerful machine.
“