Firebirdman55

I was under my 92 yesterday replacing tie rods. I have been having some frame flex on the driver's side when steered and sometimes the front bumper even moves. Everything on the frame looks good. But I noticed yesterday that the radiator support has a spot rusted all the way through on the driver's side. Can this be the issue and what's a solution?

Chris_1

iTrader: (1)

More likely to be the rivets that hold your main (engine) crossmember. They sometimes have to be removed and replaced with Grade 8 bolts.

Firebirdman55

Talked to a local shop on the phone just now that is familiar with this repair. Taking it in tomorrow afternoon and they are going to get it solved. Hopefully this solves the issue. $900 truck. Fixing it up and getting it road worthy again. Just got to work and drove it here. It sure does wobble going down the road. Don't like that one bit.

Crownman

What did they say the issue is?

Firebirdman55

They're saying loose rivets in the frame as well. The shop owner said it was a cheap and easy fix. One hour of labor plus the cost of Grade 8 bolts.

Chris_1

iTrader: (1)

It's a common problem. I believe Ford put out a circular about it. It's more than likely the problem - especially the top 2 rivets on the drivers side. Have someone move the steering wheel back and forth a little while you watch for play. It's not much play but if you watch real close you'll see it.
Once you swap in the bolts, it's better than new.

Firebirdman55

Well, got a call from the shop today. The rivets are fine. The frame is metal fatigued. He said the spring bucket and all is bowing in and out when the steering wheel is turned. So, there's not much that can be done for it. I'm going to pick it up in the morning and limp it home. I really put a lot of money into this past week and looked forward to fixing it up.

Chris_1

iTrader: (1)

The frame is "metal fatigued" ? That's a new one.
I've seen rusted, and cracked, and bent, but never "fatigued".
Either I just learned something new or you need another opinion. Or both.

Firebirdman55

I know, I thought it was quite weird too. He said the rivets were fine. He wanted to weld a plate in there at a cost over $500. I said no way. I asked if it was rusted or cracked and he said no. I really don't see how a frame can be metal fatigued. It's never been welded on or worked on...

Chris_1

iTrader: (1)

Coil bucket's attached to the side of the frame, so if the frame moves the coil bucket will. Question is why is the frame moving ? Or more to the point, why isn't it staying where it belongs ?
Your choice of course, with a 900.00 truck, you might want to cut your losses and just move on but I'd be taking a real close look at things and see if you can't find a better explanation for what's happening.