Common Frame Issues

[bladerunner]

A guy at work was asking about tips for buying a 73-87. He was particularly interested in what are the common frame issues on these trucks, if any.  I pointed him at the 4 Wheel Off Road article:

http://www.4wheeloffroad.com/techarticles/131_9706_buying_a_used_chevy_pick/common_problems_best_years.html

It mentions steering box mounting area, near rear shock mounts and crossmembers. I figure that is pretty comprehensive. Anything else worth mentioning as I am NOT a subject expert?

[thirsty]

They are also prone to rust around the spring hangers for the rear springs if they are New England trucks at least. Particularly the front hanger for the rear springs.

[bake74]

It mentions steering box mounting area, near rear shock mounts and crossmembers. I figure that is pretty comprehensive. Anything else worth mentioning as I am NOT a subject expert?

     As far as frames go that is pretty much bad area's along with what rusty said, if it is 4x4 and has been mudding, mud collects in the pockets of the rear spring hangers and if not cleaned out can cause rust issue's.

[bladerunner]

As a result of what you said Thirsty, I checked the front hangers for my leaf springs and yep, the driver's side has a hold in it. I banged around trying to see if any more would give way, but it seems solid save for the area highlighted in the pictures (sorry they aren't clearer):





It is about the size of a penny or so. Big enough to get a finger into anyway. Looks like I will need to get it patched.

[thirsty]

That's why I converted a 2wd frame to 4wd. It is the third frame under the truck. I couldn't find a 4wd frame anywhere around me that was not damaged in that general area. I would have repaired mine but I got the 2wd frame that was too nice to pass up. Hopefully I will never have issues with frame rust again.

[bake74]

     Most people when they do a rebuild don't worry about the frames, thinking they are the strongest part, some good look over and detail to coating them will only mean they will last longer than your body will.