Posted by Vaughn [162.158.166.185] on Friday, May 06, 2022 at 22:54:55 :
In Reply to: Frame stress posted by TerryD [172.68.143.239] on Friday, May 06, 2022 at 20:33:04 :
The frame is made of alloy steel grade 4130 or Chromoly Steel, chromium and molybdenum added for hardenability and toughness per Chrysler requirements. The frame is design to flex under torque. I've not heard of a frame breaking due to more powerful engines installed, or from there weight, but I suppose applying max torque all the time could cause the frame to weaken over time. Plenty of these trucks had "A" Frames in front to lift and move heavy items around, some were damaged when pushed too far, but that's an extreme condition. Carrying a heavy burl could stress the frame over time, but these are not your every day occurrences. Your more likely to break a drive train unit than the frame with HP.
Now adding some steel to box the frame in places may be a good thing, however, it can also be a bad thing if the frame is heated too much, that will soften the Chromoly steel resulting in a weaker frame in the boxed area. Some have boxed the frame, others have heated the frame to a dull red for various reasons and will say they've had no problems, which is great, as long as they don't demand too much from the frame. Put whatever engine you in your truck, and if necessary, add some leafs to the front spring pack and enjoy the new found power.
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