DODGE TRUCK FRAME CRACKING @ STEERING BOX

I'm sure this has been discussed before, but a friend asked me tonight as he owns an 88. Is there a repair kit or just weld it?

Thanks

You need a factory frame brace.....common problem without one.


https://www.ebay.com/itm/1981-to-1993-do...ce/302607850056

www.dodgeconnection.com/catalog/item/2901766/4541374.htm

I thought this was a mostly GM problem? I imagine big tires, steering dampers, extra leverage from lift-kits and the like would be hard on any factory setup. I cringe when I see people turning trucks lock to lock while the vehicle isn't moving. Worse yet, holding the power steering to the lock while the poor pump and belt are howling for mercy.

My 01 2500 cracked, I v'd the cracked and welded it. Been good since and I run 315/75/16s on it.

It's a 318 2 wheel drive. Doesn't see alot of rough use. Thanks for the tips.

I just installed one of the braces to my '79 Power Wagon. No cracks and not getting a lot of rough use, but I like the extra protection. Nice brace and a pretty easy install.

If it is already cracked, it will need to be repaired.
Drill the ends of the crack first in order to stop anymore cracking, weld it, then add the brace.

this is best way to repair it.

The red shortbed I just bought is cracked on both sides. That is the first time I've seen it on both sides. Just bought a second shortbed and I'm parting that one out So I'm going to do a frame swap and put a put a brace on the good frame. Think I'm going to make a trailer out of the cracked frame using the rear part.