Out of control arm

Chief broken frame · April 7, 2015

Quick question, tried the search feature and came up dry.

I was T-boned about 10 years ago that deemed my truck a total loss. I bought it back and slowly cobbled it together. Had an episode a few months after restoration when the rear bolt in the lower control arm worked it's way out after having been sheared off in the wreck.

Lately I've noticed more and more play up front and creaky, cracky noises. Also had it aligned when I bought new tires a year ago, haven't hit anything since and both fronts are wearing on outer shoulders. (I rotate about every other oil change.)

Speaking of oil changes, couple weeks ago I'm laying underneath waiting for it to finish draining. I noticed a good crack in the bracket that holds the rear of the lower control arm. My first thought is to make a bracket out of some .25" I have laying around and join the control arm bolt with the upper of the adjacent frame through. Photos are taken from underneath on driver side. Anyone ever see similar damage? I'm taking it to a frame shop tomorrow to have them take a gander.

The gentleman I spoke with seemed reluctant about offering a repair but said he'd have a look.

I have new uppers, lowers, spindles and ball joints assembled that I purchased used shortly after the accident. 2002 Silverado 1500 ext cab long bed 160k miles.

Had the truck since I was 17. Kinda hard to just let go, but have been shopping for a 3/4 ton.

Thanks in advance for any insight.

DaveH71 · April 7, 2015

My opinion, let it go and get another truck. Frame repairs can be sketchy unless done perfectly and if it breaks after he fixes it then its his ass on the line. Probably why he is hesitant to fix it.

It sucks to let a truck go that you like and spent a lot of money on but you have to remember its just a truck. Its not worth a potential accident or your life.

gmtech4 · April 8, 2015

Crush it

Chief broken frame · April 8, 2015

Thanks fellas, I appreciate the input. I can see that it's not good but my eyes are clouded with attachment and sentiment. This truck's done everything from getting me in trouble in high school to working it's gate off to make money. The thought of someone driving it full of lawnmowers and mulch sucks. I'll have to disclose what the issues are and even then if someone else gets hurt it would be on my conscience.

Good candidate for pulling motor and trans for a K5 project.