Serious Rust Problem

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Mar 13, 2015 | 06:25 PM

DougJ_1997PSD

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From: Tyler, TX

Serious Rust Problem

I was working on my exhaust today, right in front of the rear axle, and I noticed that one of my cross beams was almost rusted through. My truck is a 97 250 with only 128k and it is a plow truck. judging by the rust, the owners never learned how to wash a car. The frame has a little more than surface rust, which doesn't worry me much because it is still solid, except in the back. however, this cross beam has really go me freaked out. I can't afford to spend 5k on a replacement and all the cutting and welding. My real question is: should I stop dumping money into it and just let it go? I would probably just go and buy another obs but I just don't want to let it go after all the money and time I've put into it. Does anyone have an opinion on what I should do?

Mar 13, 2015 | 07:44 PM

Diesel_Brad

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From: Gilbert, PA

EVERY crossmember in an OBS is riveted in and can be replaced other than the front engine crossmember which is welded but still can be replaced

Mar 13, 2015 | 09:48 PM

DougJ_1997PSD

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From: Tyler, TX

Any where I can get a new replacement? I wouldn't trust the junkyard parts completely.

Mar 14, 2015 | 08:29 AM

scott79

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From: Bloomington, IN

Rust is a hard problem to deal with. If the cross-member is rusted thru you can bet that there are other spots that need repair/replaced. I hate rust, and even on low mileage trucks from the midwest to east coast if they were snow plows they will have rust issue's. Unless this is a gem of a truck, I would sell it and buy one down south or west coast! There's nothing like buying a vehicle from Cali even if it's at a premium, no comparison!! Just my .02

Mar 14, 2015 | 08:39 AM

Diesel_Brad

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From: Gilbert, PA

Quote:

Originally Posted by DougJ_1997PSD

Any where I can get a new replacement? I wouldn't trust the junkyard parts completely.

New is not an option. But used is. Just because yours is rusted does not mean others are not. 2wds are typically mush better than 4wds. YES, they crossmember are the same 2wd-4wd and 80-97

Mar 14, 2015 | 09:35 PM

DougJ_1997PSD

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From: Tyler, TX

I'll probably head out to the junkyard soon. Another unrelated question: when I was installing my new downpipe today, I trimmed my firewall a little bit but does anyone have tips on how to keep the heat out and the best way to prevent rust?

Mar 15, 2015 | 08:43 AM

1994F2507.3L

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From: Higginsville, MO

What do you mean by trimming? Pics? And for rust prevention I recommend fluid film... Google fluid film. Will need an airless paint sprayer for it. I apply twice a year.