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Went to look at a '76 F150 over the weekend, overall super clean one-owner truck, with the exception of the cab mounts up front, pics below. I poked around a bit, and the metal seems solid everywhere else. I've read elsewhere that bad cab mounts can put weight on the steering column, and the steering on this truck had a good bit of play in it. Basically just looking for input from the community as to whether or not y'all think this could be a major issue later on or if I'd be safe pulling the trigger on this one and dealing with it down the road when I plan on doing body work and paint. Any input would be appreciated.
Those are pretty crusty and will eventually collapse in on themselves. Just something to keep in mind if/when you buy, maybe use it as a bargaining chip to drop the asking price.
They are going to need some attention sooner than later. Dvrs side looks worse, the issue with the settling cab is really noticeable if you have a standard trans. A settling cab causes binding in the steering, not looseness. A "good bit of play" in the trucks steering is your standard worn out steering shaft rag joint, worn out steering shaft and or steering box itself.
Are you planning on pulling the cab come paint and body work time? That sure makes it easier to replace a cab mount.
What is clamped to the inside of the passenger side radius arm?
X2 on it is not that bad IMO, yes each cab corner has some rust and maybe a small bit on the piece behind it on the passenger side. I have seen WAY worse still on the road.
Thanks for y'all's input. I was planning on just jacking the cab up a bit, slipping new mounts on, and tacking them in place, but by everyone's reaction, seems like it might not be advisable to drive it 500 miles of backroads home before having that done. I'll keep looking.
Personally i removed my cab, laid i on its back and did my repairs then undercoated it thouraly, by the way...you can repair the frame cab mounts as well, i would bet your project to be truck most likely is a candidate, difficult to see until you remove cab to frame bushings.
Good luck in your hunt.
Those mounts do need attention but they're not falling apart anytime soon....hell, they could last another 10yrs like that, these are tough old trucks.
If you really want the truck I wouldn't scrap the deal over this cab mount issue, it will surely make the 500 mile drive home, it may break down for some other reason but I can assure you it will not be because of the cab mounts.
