Known Weak Point? Power Steering Gear / frame

[Silver Surfer]

So this kid at the auto parts store tells me that it is common that the power steering gear exerts so much force that it stresses/cracks the frame where it is attached. And "they" make a kit to fix this or I could just use some big washers to help distribute the force. I have been trying to find info on this but not really having any luck. I looked for cracks on my frame since I have the gear off now, but I did not see any problems. This is a street truck, with close to stock rim/tire sizes. Its an 81 Scottsdale. Do I need to be worried?

This is about the only thing I can find, and it appears to be geared to the 4x4 crowd.
http://www.offroaddesign.com/catalog/steeringkit.htm

[cancritter]

havent heard of similar issues in here although those that are extreme of roaders might run into this issue on other trucks but our frames are pretty solid..have a hard time seeing that happen short of a accident...wouldnt sweat it...think key word here is.."kid at the auto parts store"

[Silver Surfer]

When I pulled the engine out of the truck, the engine cross member was cracked in 2 places, 1 crack by each of the motor mounts. I have an old magazine article called "C-10, weak links and strong fixes". One of the items they mentioned is that the engine cross member is known to crack. So perhaps I am being a little paranoid, it is my nature!

[dave89iroc]

Yeah, cracks behind the steering box are common on 4x4 trucks, the second part on the page you linked is the repair plates, but I've never seen it on 2wd trucks

[GreaseDog]

There are times where the "kids at the auto parts store" is spot on... And this its one of them. Google "autofab" they are the ones who actually make that brace kit. ORD just puts their sticker on it.

[Silver Surfer]

There are times where the "kids at the auto parts store" is spot on... And this its one of them. Google "autofab" they are the ones who actually make that brace kit. ORD just puts their sticker on it.

Sweet! This looks like it, right? Looks like I don't need to worry since this is a street 2wd truck.


Keep this from happening to your 1973 to 1987 4x4 Chevy/GMC trucks.
Suburban and Blazers up to 1991 that come with straight axle 4wd front end have the same problem.

[GreaseDog]

It does happen on 2wd trucks too. So it is a concern

[jt1200r]

it happened on mine a 87 r10

[tahoe 9955]

there are times where the "kids at the auto parts store" is spot on... And this its one of them. Google "autofab" they are the ones who actually make that brace kit. Ord just puts their sticker on it.x2

[Silver Surfer]

Well I actually have this article saved at the house. Just for kicks I googled it and found it. The weak frame is the first thing listed!

http://www.fourwheeler.com/techarticles/129_0405_gm_truck_buildup_tips/viewall.html

[timbanditos]

Hey guys, what exactly should we be looking for on the frame from the steering box? I want to look mine over and prevent this if possible. Thanks!

[Underpowered]

cracks there the steering box bolts to the frame.

very common issue. i have the brace on my k5, and even still you can watch the frame flex when i turn.

[87GMC1500]

I can confirm this issue on 2wd trucks as well. I've seen a few break the frame at the gear box. Had to weld the frame on my 74 c10