73 k10 frame major cracking issue.

[Mike_The_Grad]

Hey everyone, so I been working on my buddy's 73 k10 since June. Ls swap, rewire, hydroboost the whole 9. Anyways. I was checking the oil giving it once over when I noticed the framerail on drivers side ahead of the steering gearbox mounting area is practically cracked all the way from top to bottom. I noticed that the frame had been welded at least once before. They didn't do a particularly good job in my opinion. It's pretty bad in my opinion. I told thee owner I think he's due for a a completely new front frame section. But it's not in thee budget. So I'm going to do my best. I have the reinforcement plate kit to add after the frame repair. And a new remanufactured steering gearbox to top it off. Here are some pictures so far. I've already replaced 1 loose rivet from the front spring eye hanger. And I see another rivet along the bottom foo the frame rail for the front crossmember that holds the brake prop valve.

And oh yeah a chunk of the frame rail fell out into my lap about the size of a pumpkin seed. Any thoughts?