Cracked Steering Gear Bracket

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Hey Gang!

I guess I've been in a bit of a First Generation posting "Coma" lately and now I finally made it back to the computer and have a question.

I read numerous postings about leaking steering gears and steering shaft replacements but has anyone had the 3 bolt 'steering gear attachment bracket' crack? Mine is cracked at the forward most attachment point to the frame, directly behind the bolt. The other (2) rearward attachment points look good.

I have noticed some deterioration in the steering recently but thought it was finally time for the Borgeson Steering Shaft replacement, to my surprise the bracket was cracked.

Questions:

Has anyone else had this problem?
Is there a more robust aftermarket fix?
If OEM is req'd, a part number would be awesome.

Thank you in advance... . "Komatose Keeno"

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1992 W250 5spd. 3. 54 gears, LSD, JRE enhanced VE Injector Pump, BD High Output Injectors, Banks "Stinger Plus" consisting of a replaced 12cm2 wastegated housing, 3 1/2" JRE modified exhaust/muffler, pyro/boost gages, K&N, Skyjacker 2 1/2" front suspension lift to clear 305/70R/16 Goodyear MT's, Mag-Hytec, Amsoil, Rhino liner, Fully Chrominated Aluminum Aftermarket Accessory T-handle Shift Knob

 

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Keeno. I had to replace my steering gear box a couple months ago and I also had a crack that went about half way through the bracket. I had the welding shop repair it and reinforce it on the back side. No problems so far.
Our W350 at work had a steering problem last year and it's bracket had cracked clear through, and the frame behind it was cracked half way through!
I'm thinking that it might be a good idea for first gen owners to inspect this area for cracks once and awhile.
Don.

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'93 W250, LE, CC, 4x4, 5spd. , Cummins, K&N, 16cm turbo, Power Wagon injectors, Professionaly rebuilt and calibrated pump, straight exhaust, Lund visor w/lights, 5th wheel, Gooseneck, H. D. rear hitch, Aluminum everything. My Rigs

 

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The steering gear bracket is used on the 4x4's.
Pn. for 90-91 is 4333525
Pn. for 92-93 is 52037876
Gene
92 350 4x4

 

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93 also broken steering bracket,was told a recall took place in 94,my bracket was broke in half,didn't know why Iwas having steering problems,now I know.

 

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Mine's cracked also. I knew this when I bought it. Dodge shop said the bracket is cheap (less than $30) and I will replace it myself. I do have some shimmy when braking and attribute it to brakes. I will check the bracket after reading these posts.

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Stock 92, 5sp LE, 4WD, 4. 10 gears, std cab, 184K miles, 50 gal aux. ,more to come

 

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FWIW, my brother who owns a '92' has had the very same problem. After 'weld repairs' it broke again and he finally resorted to having one 'overbuilt' for replacement. No problems since.
bushwakr

 

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My 80 4WD crew cab also had a cracked bracket. I don't think there is much to gain by polishing the edges etc. to reduce stress risers. Just keep a spare on hand. It's better than Chevy's--they crack the frame instead #ad

 

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Hello First Gen'ers!

Thanks for all the replies on the 'Crack'! I didn't realize it was such a common occurence! Any thoughts on what happen if it cracks completely while driving?

Thanks to all, especially "GeneH" for always coming through with the part #'s in that clean, concise, no bull writing style!

Keeno

 

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Its great to have a factory parts manual sitting on the desk!
Gene
92 350 4x4