Broken front leaf spring mount

[Vinny68]

My 1997 Ranger only has 56k miles but one of the front leaf spring mounts on the rear axle has broken and my mechanic is telling me even if they could find the part (which they haven't been able to so far - rear leaf spring mounts are abundant but front mounts are not) the frame is too rusty to attach it. I might take it to a welder to get another opinion but otherwise it sounds like I may have to scrap it which seems like a shame with so few miles. Open to any other suggestions or ideas.

 

[superj]

Oh wow, that sucks. That is so low miles

 

[Shran]

I'm not sure what their problem is finding parts, all of the mounts are readily available. I replaced them on a 95 last year and I had no problem finding everything easily... and a quick Google just now found everything again easily. "Ford ranger front leaf spring hanger" is what I searched.

The frame itself being rotted away is a bigger issue. It's always fixable somehow but at what cost and how dedicated are you to the truck is the main question. I'd have no problem cutting patch pieces and fixing it myself BUT I understand that's not an option for a lot of folks. See if you can get a second opinion I guess.

 

[lil_Blue_Ford]

I agree with @Shran and will go further to say it sounds like the mechanic doesn’t want to be bothered with fixing it or doesn’t know how.

 

[Shran]

Well to be fair fixing a rotten frame is a lot of work and it can open a big can of worms when you start finding crossmembers, brake lines, gas tank straps, etc that are also rotted out. There is some liability involved for whoever fixes it as well, I doubt a normal mechanic would want to take that type of deal on. And the labor... It would be pretty easy to have a couple full days into that type of project if it's really rusted. $100/hour X 8 hour days... plus materials... $$$$$$$

 

[Vinny68]

My mechanic did mention he was concerned about the liability of fixing the rusted frame. It's just not the type of work they specialize in. I talked to some people who all recommended the same welding shop near me so I'm taking it there today to see what they have to say. They will evaluate the broken mount as well as the condition of the rest of the frame and let me know what they think.

I wish I could work on this myself like Shran mentioned above but I just don't have the tools, skills or space to tackle it. I'm more of just an oil change and brakes type of guy.