Hi all, i'm wondering about something: I've heard before that the frame cracks at the steering box area. I've also heard that the mounting plate cracks, too.
So i'm wondering if these are the same thing or do both of them develope cracks? If the frame is crack, is there any way to embrase it so it's stronger?

 

Right on both counts: the bracket is cracked on mine (haven't looked hard enough to know about the frame), and the frame used to be on my parts truck. It was repaired with a piece of strap iron welded to the top of the frame rail, and the mounting area itself had steel plate welded over it & was redrilled (previous owner was a welder). The bracket's fine, so I'll be using it on my truck, & doing my best to repair the frame, if need be.
Hope this helps.
- Chris

 

a comon fix on offroading rigs is to box the frame in that area and run tubes through it for the bolts.

 

This truck won't see any serious off road action. What do you mean by boxing the frame?
Thanks
Brent

 

Weld a plate on the inside of the C channel of the frame. Then get some tubing with an ID that the mounting bolts will fit through. Drill holes throuth the frame and the plate that this tubing fits in. Weld around the tubing on both sides then grind it down smooth.

I haven't seen it done on a dodge but 73-86 chevy frames develop the same problems it seems.

Plating the frame would most likely be easier and sufficient for a stock truck.