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Boxing Frame Rails

Old Aug 19, 2012 | 01:33 AM
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Default Boxing Frame Rails

I know that the Rams with the smaller frame rails are susceptible to cracking. I don't want to box the entire length of the frame rails, I think it will add a lot of weight. So where do they crack, where is the best place to box them?
 
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Old Aug 19, 2012 | 01:40 AM
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the only common place i have heard of a frame cracking is where the steering box is on the frame.
 
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Old Aug 19, 2012 | 11:10 PM
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OK I remember reading about the frame cracking just wasn't sure where.

Think it would be worth welding in a tubular crossmember across the 2 frame rails just in front of the steering box.
 
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Old Aug 19, 2012 | 11:37 PM
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i think it there is no crack in the frame as it is then i would leave it.
 
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Old Aug 20, 2012 | 10:24 AM
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I would probably look for cracks, and if there arent any, I would leave it. If it is cracked, I would probably clean the crack, lay a bead, cut a plate to match the damaged area + a few inches, then weld around that. Extra bracing is something I would most likely skip, but of course each project requires different repair techniques.
 
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Old Aug 20, 2012 | 03:38 PM
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if you did find a crack you need to make sure to drill a hole at each end of it before you do any welding or it would just continue cracking.
 
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Old Aug 21, 2012 | 11:52 AM
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I didn't see any cracks when I sandblasted the frame.They should of been noticeable when I did that.

I think I'm going to box the frame up to the cab though, just to add some rigidity, to help it handle a little better. Also probably going to box the lower control arms while I'm at it.
 
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