Should I Strengthen my Frame?
 

I'm Working on my 72 K20 and i hear so much about people strengthening the frame on these trucks that i wasnt sure if it was a normal thing to do. My main plan for this truck is to be used both off-road and on-road. My main uses off road would be mainly hauling wood and probably some mudding. On road i would use it for some towing and driving. I dont plan on racing but i may do some kind of engine/transmission swap in the future. Any advice is welcome! Thanks!

Re: Should I Strengthen my Frame?
 

Stronger is always better, but is not always needed..... and for normal use like you have described, I's say it's not needed. I've owned my '72 K20 for 36 years and have put it through quite a lot, though I wouldn't say I've abused it, just worked it pretty hard at times. Nothing has broken.

Re: Should I Strengthen my Frame?
 

I wouldn't worry about it unless you crack the frame,Places like a steering box brace or maybe a better engine crossmember i would.Steering box brace http://offroaddesign.com/catalog/steeringkit.htm and http://diy4x.com/cart/index.php?rout...&product_id=80

Re: Should I Strengthen my Frame?
 

Thanks for the info guys, as long as I am taking everything apart I thought it might be a good idea to do it just in case It needs it in the future. If I was going to strengthen it what is the best thing to do?
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Re: Should I Strengthen my Frame?
 

Frame flex is actually a good thing. It prevents damage to your frame.

Re: Should I Strengthen my Frame?
 

Only place that needs it is the steering box mount those are known for cracking or opening up the holes in the frame.Unless you use the truck hardcore off road like jumping the frame is fine now.

Re: Should I Strengthen my Frame?
 

If your not beating on it i would put the money elsewhere

Re: Should I Strengthen my Frame?
 

If it's a 72 it may already have a reinforcing bracket / plate for the steering box on it from the factory, Mine does ! Look on the inside of the frame behind the steering box for a brace that fits inside the frame rail, between the frame & the front crossmember.

Gary