Cracked frame at steering gear

[blublazn86]

So I was getting ready to lower my 87 1/2 ton 2wd square body and I ran across a problem. I found out that the frame was cracked at the steering gear. I have had 7 square bodys over the years 2 of which were 4wd and have never had this problem..I knew the frames were prone to crack there but never had a problem with any of the ones that I owned. I have been doing a little research and the only repair kit I have found is for 4WD ONLY and from what I have found out is they say they will not work on the 2WD frame. It looks my only other option is to find a good donor frame. If anyone else has any other info about this problem of knows of a kit for my 87 2WD square please let me know. Thanks for you time and help.

 

[crazy4offroad]

The outer patch will work it's the under frame patch piece that will not fit. You could just weld it up inside & out. I made a patch out of 1/8" stock, shaped it for the steering box standoffs with MAPP gas and a ball-peen hammer.

 

[87fi]

I too have had many of these trucks. I had one that had the same problem. We just Fish plated , welded it all up and re-drilled all the holes. It worked perfectly

 

[Cowboy Cadillac]

Fish plate it and then box the framerail or weld in a brace from frame to front crossmember. Its pretty common with the 4x4 guys who hammer on their trucks.

 

[blublazn86]

Thanks for the info guys!!