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73-87 Chevy _ GMC Trucks => Brakes, Frame, Steering & Suspension => Topic started by: ctandc on December 17, 2018, 03:53:40 pm

Title: Upper rear shock mount - frame tweaked not cracked
Post by: ctandc on December 17, 2018, 03:53:40 pm

1984 GMC K1500 SWB 4x4. Driving project. Went to replace the overload shocks on the rear that have probably been there for 20 years and luckily I randomly started on the passenger rear.

The upper shock stud is angled downwards. The stud itself doesn't appear bent - it's the frame - it seems tweaked where the stud is. No cracks. Only pics I have.

Any reason I can't heat that area up with a torch and beat the stud / frame back into a decent alignment then replace the stud?

(https://i.imgur.com/FEHDFSM.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/BjazsdW.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/4S8pCC0.jpg)

Title: Re: Upper rear shock mount - frame tweaked not cracked
Post by: Rapid Roy on December 17, 2018, 04:51:09 pm

Welcome

Title: Re: Upper rear shock mount - frame tweaked not cracked
Post by: VileZambonie on December 18, 2018, 04:55:09 pm

Without heating it, see what happens if you try to bend it back into position. If it goes, the frame is weak and you will need a reinforcement bracket. That frame looks neglected and in need of some TLC. Also get new mounts for after you are done repositioning it.

Title: Re: Upper rear shock mount - frame tweaked not cracked
Post by: AZ4X4SQBDY on December 22, 2018, 01:08:38 pm

That's kind of weird, the shock was too short constantly pulling down on it. Usually they get bent up from too many "hold my beer and watch this!" stories where they jumped it or bottomed its out too many times. I've got one like that now and I am going to try to use a large hardened washer to do the repair of the damaged area.