I-beam problems.

[TRex650]

Just found out today that the bracket that holds my drivers side I-beam has multiple cracks and I need to replace the eye bushings on both. I should have no trouble welding or replacing the bracket, but I was wondering if this is a problem I need to watch out for on these trucks? This is the first I have heard of one failing. Also how big of a pain is it to change the eye bushings on the beams? Thanks.

 

[hesutton]

I've seen a couple of guys have the same problem. You can weld it up, but I bet you could get one for free (or dang near) at a boneyard. As far changing the bushings.............You can make a puller/pusher from a long bolt, washers and on old socket. Otherwise you'll have drive the old out and the new in and that can be a *****. Be sure to freeze the new bushings in the freeze and lube 'em up prior to stuffing them in.

Heath

 

[towcat]

I've been spoiled on shop air for years(180psi 120gal tank). Jobs like yours are real easy on shop air I have driven out the bushings via air hammer with a chisel attachment. Gets the job done quickly. the bracket for the driver's side I-beam should be an unbolt from the crossmember iirc.

 

[soulpatchfr]

does it look anything like this?
another view

that was my pax side mount. replaced a year or 2 ago... the stealership had the part available in 2 days, for less than $40 if i remember correctly. for that cheap, i'd go new.
and under no circumstances would i attempt to weld it.

 

[rancherman84]

howd you guys find the cracks?
just rolling around on a creeper looking or did you have a clunk or strange noises?
i have a clunk that i cannot seem to locate,its not the calipers or bushings