Frame Crack Fix Opinions
 

Hey guys, cleaned up my frame today and found a crack. Any opinions on how to fix? Drill the end and weld it up? Just an FYI I am switching to RR steering and I have the dodge connection brace. Thanks!

Drill a hole in the end of the crack to stop it. Grind a groove over the crack and weld it. Maybe plate over it if possible.

I have seen many of the taller 8 inch '92/'93 frames crack there.
I agree with MrFusion, though I doubt there is enough room for a plate there. You might be able to build it up a little with some weld though.

There is no real need for the D.C. brace when using a R.R. box set up.

Suggest that you drill the hole a bit past the visible crack as there will be some fatigue in the metal that is not visible to the naked eye.

Like the others have said: Drill, groove and weld. My truck had cracks in the same area and so far the weld repair is holding up well. I do not run wide tires and I always try to only turn the steering wheel when the truck is rolling.
I am trying to gather RR parts for my truck right now.

If you want to be thorough you can do a dye penetrant test to see exactly how far the crack travels. Sometimes at the end it is 1/4-1/2" further then it looks with the naked eye.

Once you do that drill at the end of the crack, die grind a groove and weld it up with a 7018 rod

Weld
 

As stated , drill and weld . Clean the frame as good as possible . Don't grind the weld when finished . I prefer MIG to stick , to each his own . Just use a qualified welder and allow to cool on its own

How many amps?
AC or DC?

BTW
Where would you find someone who could weld a frame?

Maybe a heavy truck frame repair shop or a mobile welding rig (I see these along the freeway along truck routes)

Any idea the going $ rate for a mobile welder?

Just wondering,
I also have a crack in my frame and wondering if it would be cheaper than dragging out my stick welder.
Thanks.

I would do it but you are a long distance from me to weld . The better the excess the easier and better chances to get a good weld . Finding someone to do it as a business adventure maybe a bit hard because of liabality issues . Once you touch it , it becomes yours for life. I have done many pipeline , machine and boiler repairs in my job. Any qualified welder can make this repair . Plating is not required .

I highly recommend SPOT CHECK https://www.grainger.com/product/pro...enetrant-3WU63 when dealing with any kind of metal cracks. This will show you what you don't see.