Frame cracked. Common problem?
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Tuned
Joined: May 2016
Posts: 448
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Frame cracked. Common problem?
I was under my truck today.a 73 f350 super camper. I noticed my frame is broken right behind the steering box mounts. Just in front of the radius arms mounts. It's cracked on the lower frame lip. Is that a common problem? Or my dumb luck. I'm not worried about how fix. I'm a very competent welder. I was just wondering if this is common what have you guys that have fixed one done to prevent it in the future. Thanks
Fleet Owner
Joined: Dec 2009
Posts: 20,678
Likes: 82
From: NorCal
Cracks around the steering box mounts are relatively common on other makes of trucks... not common among Dentsides. ...90s Dodge Rams are notorious and so much so that the aftermarket offers a steering box brace.
Before welding, drill the end of crack to stop it in its tracks. Then lightly grind the crack to create a bevel. Then weld both sides...... to be doubly sure it doesn't happen again, consider adding a fish plate over the repair
Before welding, drill the end of crack to stop it in its tracks. Then lightly grind the crack to create a bevel. Then weld both sides...... to be doubly sure it doesn't happen again, consider adding a fish plate over the repair
Ford Parts Specialist
Joined: Nov 2006
Posts: 88,826
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From: Simi Valley, CA
The original nuts worked loose, the gearbox began to wiggle, sooner or later the frame cracked.
Ford's fix: Longer grade 8 bolts, locking nuts. Dealers were instructed to weld the crack, then weld sheet metal onto both sides of the frame to reinforce it.
Lead Driver
Joined: Feb 2002
Posts: 7,952
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From: Greater Austin, Texas
In my experience, it is very common - on Chevies.
https://www.amazon.com/Warrior-900-F...steering+brace
https://www.amazon.com/Warrior-900-F...steering+brace
Elder User
Joined: May 2012
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From: Puyallup, WA
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