2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission frame

[dkoldno7]

Has any one ever installed extra cross member in the weak frame of a 2002 2500 4x4,for towing ?

 

[WestTN]

I have a 2001 2wd 2500 and I have NEVER though there was any kind of problem with the frame. What problem are you having?

 

[JMcCoy]

It's been on the list for a while now. Our frames are a little weak and have a lot of flex. If I park on uneven ground, I can't close my door. I have a club cab. Quad cabs are even worse. I was planning to remove the bed and box the frame. I was then going to ad some sort of an X shaped cross member. Maybe someone else has a better way to do it.

 

[Road Dog]

My truck is fine on uneven ground. Your problem sounds more like a loose door hinge or even a broken weld on the frame. Truck frames are heat treated after welding so you need a really big oven.

 

[EDankievitch]

On the 2000 through 2002 trucks Dodge thought to save money and remove one of the cross members from the chasse. My 02 use to have a squeek fom the from cowling as the frame twisted.

 

[JMcCoy]

My truck is fine on uneven ground. Your problem sounds more like a loose door hinge or even a broken weld on the frame. Truck frames are heat treated after welding so you need a really big oven.

My truck has been like this since day one. My hinges and welds are just fine. 2nd gens just have a lot of flex. That is why they went to the "BOXED" Hydroformed frames in the 3rd gens. When I mean uneven ground, I don't mean a slanted driveway. I mean while off road. When the truck is articulating over obsticals, I can feel (with my hand) the door and body moving back and forth. If you tow real heavy or do a lot of off roading, it would be a good idea to address. It's about half way down my TO-DO list.

 

[Bob Cochran]

I have not had this kind of problem but a comment. I would be careful about welding on the frame. I love to burn rod and wire for fun I would not attempt on my frame. I think I would recommend seeking out a certified welding because of the already said heat treating of the frames. FYI

 

[Joseph Donnelly]

check body mounts for wear, etc.