Archived Broken bolt

[PSoffe]

Pulled into the parking space here at work and heard a loud "POP", so loud my co-worker heard it inside the office.



I could tell that it was in the steering and when I inspected the steering system I found that the top bolt for the steer box to frame had snapped!



The remaining two boltsa are still tight and I have had an issue over the past few months with these bolts backing out.



Any ideas on what might have caused this stress and ultimate failure.



Should/could it be driven back to the house (23 miles) for repairs.



HELP!

 

[JLandry]

Any ideas on what might have caused this stress and ultimate failure.



Should/could it be driven back to the house (23 miles) for repairs.



HELP!

I can't tell you why the bolt broke, but I sure as heck wouldn't drive that truck without replacing the bolt! Steering and brakes aren't something you want to cut corners on... you life depends on them.



Good luck,



John L.

 

[Missouri Mule]

I'll I have to agree with JLandry. There is a chance that the other bolts mite break leaving without steering.

 

[PSoffe]

Thanks guys, I really hadn't intended on driving it. It scared me a little bit to think if one could break there is a good possibility the rest could too.



I am really baffled by the whole thing. It must have been extremly over stressed.



Had it towed home and it's going in the shop this week. Among other things it having all the bolts replaced on the steer box.



Thanks again.