Modeling frame rails in autocad inventor?

[Rhino]

I'm working on learning inventor and run into a few issues. I'm a few versions back (2008 pro). It appears I have access to the 2011 student edition, but only want to go down that route if it's not possible with 2008. What's the best way to model frame rails? At first the frame generator looked like it'd be fantastic, but I can't figure out how to anything but a space frame with it. I'm looking to model the rear frame rails in two types. One being the stock "top hat" rear rails in a first gen, and then replacing them with 2x4.

On the 2x4, I thought about creating a shape, then shelling it, however I'm not sure that's the best route.

[Bryce]

I use CATIA. I would create the profile then make a rib using the "thick" option.

[Rhino]

Thanks Bryce. I think I found a similar option in Inventor, I just figured there had to be a faster way. The way it looks, I'll create the frame profile, then have to create a work plane to extrude across between every bend.
I've also been looking at a few tutorials on the frame generator. It looks like there may be the possibility of using the frame generator for both, however I'll have to create some custom materials for the stock rail. Unfortunately I don't have access to Inventor here at work so I'll have to wait until I get home to test out the theory.

[Bryce]

If you send me a profile sketch and a center curve for your frame rail I can create a thick profile rib in about 3 seconds. Then I can export it to you in IGS.

[Rhino]

Thanks for the offer Bryce. Everything finally clicked once I had the chance to sit down in front of it again for a few hours. Just like everything else I'm finding lately... now that I've figured it out, given the same need I can get it done in about 30 seconds. :) Throw down two curves and a couple clicks later I'm close to what I want. Good thing trial and error on here is a lot cheaper than tubing.

I've done a decent amount of modeling in the past, but for some reason I can't wrap my head around the way Inventor wants to do certain tasks.