How common are frame cracks?

[12bit]

I've got a 94 FZJ80 (235K miles) with cracks around my steering box. I have a Delta kit to repair it, but haven't had time for the project yet.

I also have a 97 CE (139K miles) that I am building a new motor for. The vehicle is in nice shape. It is completely stock and does not have any frame cracks as far as I can tell. (I bought this truck with a blown engine, so I've never had it on the road) The engine bay is empty and there won't be an easier time to install the plates.

Does it make sense to install the delta frame braces as a preemptive measure? How common or inevitable are these frame cracks?

Seems like the ultimate OCD "while you're in there" thing to do. But I'd sure hate to find out I need to do it when the motor is in place.

 

[TheBussman]

depends on what your plans are, stock tires and drive on the street id say dont worry about it. Big tires and lots of off-road id say do it, pretty easy install.

 

[Marco Lau]

larger tires, rock crawling will most definitely contribute to cracked frame around the steering box area.....Delta has a kit for the fix....

 

[Fj80oregon]

Man just because the engine is out I would say do it now! Yes it’s OCD but it’s also insurance and piece of mind. His parts are priced fairly for that kit and what a hour or two of welding and primer/paint.

 

[LK90]

IMO - Do the plates for piece of mind and insurance.

Personally, im way to OCD to not do them in a situation like yours. While the motors out take a look and see if anything else needs to be taken care off, or will, before the engine goes back in and it becomes more difficult, you know "while youre in there" . Ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure IMO.

 

[Marvelicious]

Totally agree, if the engine is out and you already have the kit, don't even think twice, just do the work and rest easy.

 

[White Stripe]

Mine was cracked with stock tires and suspension.

 

[Kernal]

FWIW, found a cracked weld on a motor mount bracket where it is attached to the frame, more specifically it was a poor weld when the frame was put together which eventually gave way. As others have said, do it now and check/service things that need attention while the engine is out.

 

[Broski]

Yes, you may as well replace absolutely everything under the hood while the motor is out because it’s easier to do now.
Don’t mind if there’s nothing wrong with it just replace it now cause it’s easier

 

[mudgudgeon]

How common are frame cracks?

Common enough that multiple vendors have repair plates available.
Common enough that it should be part of trouble shooting any steering wobble or suspension issues