2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission Cracks in frame

[MikeBeggy]

I just installed one of Darin's brackets to help the steering box pitman arm and I noticed that I have cracks about a half inch long where the frame rails are welded to the front cross member. There is rust and a clearly visible crack on the underside of the main frame. I have 150k miles, no radical offroading. Has anyone seen this on their rigs? The cracks begin along the factory welds, can the frame be welded (again) in this area. Thanx in advance.

 

[LSMITH]

Steve St Laurent has been down the cracked frame road. He is thorough in his research too. His problems were in a different part of the frame but should apply to your cracks as well. PM him and start a dialogue. I would trust Steve to guide me on this one without a doubt.

 

[Chipstien]

Shouldn't be any problem welding the frame but check with Steve first.

 

[Sled Puller]

Just in case a Ford guy is reading this, Steves cracks were caused by a set of traction bars, not a Dodge issue.



How are your welds holding Steve? LOL

 

[Show Cattle Hotshot]

This past fall I had some uneven tire wear problems , couldnt figure it out , then one day I was under truck putting longer oil vent tube on and noticed that both sides of the fron crossmember were cracked (the cracks would close when lifted on hoist) right where the upper spring supports were welded to the crossmember. My truck has hardly ever been on a dirt road never mind wrecked. So we went to dodge about it they said they had never seen such a thing. when I took it to one of my welding (engineer) buddies to look at the dodge welds from the factory, he just laughed and said ge couldnt beleive that they held together this long:--) :--) :--) !!!!!!!



So me and him ground out the cracks lined everything up and welded the crack lines and they ground off smooth and put two plate diamond supports on BETTER THAN NEW





Everyone look at your frame and dodge welds

 

[Bill Lins]

Wasn't there a recall on these?

 

[Peterbilt379CJ]

If I am wrong please tell me but I have a recall on my 1995 2500 for the spring towers and it says the dealership will weld in new supports for these.