Frame straight for bags?

[thirdstreettito]

If a truck's frame is bent 3/16" will it affect an air ride system? It's a straight axle 4x4. Should it be fixed first?

[draggin86]

Where is the frame bent? 3/16's isnt to bad. These frame are known for moving around a flexing. it isnt uncommon to have them out that much to start with. Maybe some pictures would help!

[thirdstreettito]

Dad got it checked without me. And he doesn't remember where. But the truck dogwalks down the road. I hate following it somewhere, it looks like it just got in a crash.

[draggin86]

if it is dog walking it could be the rearend. so i would make sure that it is correctly centered. If it is bend enough to have the truck track like that, then i would think it would be a lot more then 3/16's. get under it take a look take some measurements and get to the bottom of! then move forward with your plans.

[SCOTI]

I wouldn't do anything until the 'dog-walk' is remedied. Going straight down the road should be the main priority after safety.

[Shane]

it will take more than 3/16 to make it do the ol' sideways crab walk ... as already posted, check the rear-end and make sure it isn't "canted" or mounted in some crooked fashion.

A good way to start is to measure center of front wheel to center of rear wheel on both sides and compare the numbers.

[thirdstreettito]

Ok, thanks guys. I replaced the original blown rear-end with a rebuilt 40K mile 89' rear end back in February/March. Hadn't had the truck that long, so I didn't know if it was dogwalking. I also forgot to recheck the torque on the u bolts after the original fitment.

[draggin86]

You would be surprised how easy it is not to get that rearend right on the centering pins on the leafs!

[thirdstreettito]

Well, it's on the pins. Dad said when he brought it to get the 4-wheel alignment checked the guy measured the rear end. I'll measure as well to make sure. Also, the front alignment has not been done since we've had the truck.