I have a 2000 F-350 Cab/Chassis and I want to bolt down a 1/2" thick steel plate and attach my 5th wheel setup to the plate. There are no holes in the top of the frame rails but there are tons of pre-punched holes on the sides of the frame. My question is can I use J bolts or something similar to attach my plate to without having to drill new holes in the frame rails? Any suggestions are appreciated.

 

There are L brackets & heavy grade bolts specific to that frame, Some drilling is required, Check with a good hitch installer or your ford parts dept.

 

Thanks... I found out they don't make a bracket for the Cab/Chassis Setups. It was suggested to me to mount 3x4x1/2" angle iron to the outside of the frame rails and attach the mounting rails to that. My question now is what precautions should I take when drilling into the frame (other that hitting important lines, etc.) Is it safe to drive the sides of the frame rail? I no drilling into the top flange of the rail is a no-no but are the side ok to drill into? Any thoughts are appreciated. Thanks.

 

It's ok to drill on the side of the frame...better than welding. Use a high grade fine thread 1/2" bolt/ and a 17/32 drill bit. (total of 8 bolts)

 

I have drilled the sides in the past for air bag and suspension mods without a problem and according to directions that came with the components. I think you are good to go!

Steve

 

rule of thumb I go by is don't weld the sides, and don't drill the top or bottom. but then again that was with heat treated frames of semi's.

 

>ule of thumb I go by is don't weld the sides, and don't drill the top or bottom. but then again that was with heat treated frames of semi's.

Yes, I was taught that too.

Is there any way you can have someone weld 3/8 side plates to the 1/2" base plate and attach to the side of the frame rails that way?