Frame front crossmember replacement

Crossmember problem

 

Here is my two cents worth (and I used to be a autobody frame guy, so I have done some of this type work)-which crossmember? the very front most? Odd to have rusted out, but okay. The whole front of the truck needs to come off so you can get to the rivets. Core support is probably in the way as is most of the plumbing for the trans. The rivets them selves grind off and chisel out pretty easily but it takes time. What was the hour estimate? What is the shop rate? Are they bolting back in or weld-assuming bolting. Again takes time. All depends on the estimate predicated on time. Reputable shops use industry recognized books to create their estimates. I would trust that they are accurate. If you don't trust the shop, I would get another estimate. It is a lot of money... yes, but it is a relatively big job. Seems in range to me, but I also didn't go out and look at my truck to see all that is involved...

 

If they're calling for 8.9 hours it sounds like it's going to take someone all day to do it. Looking at the amount of work involved, yea I could see that taking up a whole day.

 

Yikes.

After you get that taken care of, you might set back some money for other stuff.

Have you taken a look at your shocks, cam bolts, steering shaft, or frame by the converter on the drives side?

I’d do a really thorough inspection before I do anything else.
Most importantly have the entire frame inspected.

 

Tommorow I gotta take a look at that. If it's just bolted on in sound high to me. Can you visibly see the bolts that hold the support on.

 

I would be 100% concerned about how the rest of the frame looks.

 

I've got one of these I cut off my truck. Really, it shouldn't take much more than an hour to cut out old, prep for weld, then weld in new. I can send you the one I got.

 

Make sure it's worth putting the $$$ into. Not many people are going to buy a truck that is that crusty with frame patches.

 

Dude...most of us cut that cross member off to gain better front approach angle. It is useless except that it provides the attachment point for your skid plate. You should just cut it off and spend a few $ for a custom skid to match it. In this photo you can see that mine is cut off and you can see how it provides better ground clearance :



A simple piece of square tubing between the frame horns to replace it :