2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission Step attachment to frame???????????

[diesel DOG]

I am making some brackets to hold some steps I purchased from a International Truck dealer. Nothing fancy just a good black painted step to stomp my boots on to clean the mud. I am going to make some brackets with some 2" x 1/4" steel. It looks like a pain to bolt to the frame because it is double in some places. Is it OK to stick weld the brackets to the frame or should I bolt it? Any tips on bolting if I have to? Pictures of brackets you have made or premade steps bought and installed are appreciated. Thanks!

 

[Gary - K7GLD]

I'd avoid welding if possible - but you might consider drilling mounting holes in the frame, then tapping them directly for the bolt threads you will be using, if you are unable to bolt from the backside...

 

[Joe G.]

When I installed motor homes steps on my truck I made a mounting plate that bolted to the frame. I welded support arms to the plate. One of the reasons I did it that way was so that I could move the support arms if they were not right. I had to move them three times before the principle passenger was satisfied with the location. If you do it that way, you need to be aware that the frame has a slight curve which causes the plate to bend a little so the support arms are a little farther apart at the outer ends then they are at the frame end.

 

[PRyker]

The question of welding is interesting...



I purchased some tough country running boards a while back on a group purchase here. When I installed them I realized that bolting them up still allowed them to flex a bit even though they were very heavy duty. Turns out as someone said above that they flex cause the frame is not flat.



Because they are full length running boards positioning was not an issue and since I plan to own the truck until it falls apart and I was happy with the appearence I decided to weld the front brackets on.



I am sure glad I did! They are rock solid and no one can steal them off my truck when I am in the city.



I would say go ahead and weld if you are sure you would be happy with them for the life of the truck, you are sure that they are positioned properly and you really want them to be solid and secure. I always prep my weld site by sanding to bare metal, applying some PickleX20 and then welding. Once cooled I prime and paint.



Phil