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.

 

[pjtoledo]

please post a couple pictures.

and start banging on the rest of the frame with a small hammer.

 

[Vinny68]

 

[pjtoledo]

seeing that I would be very concerned about the frame.
by the way, the front & rear frame sections join together at that mount and rust really likes to hide between the 2 plates.

 

[JoshT]

seeing that I would be very concerned about the frame.
by the way, the front & rear frame sections join together at that mount and rust really likes to hide between the 2 plates.

I on the other hand would not be too concerned about the frame from what I can see of it. I would however take a very good look at the other three spring hangers, better to do all of them at once if necessary. Just from the initial statement by the mechanic that he can't find the parts, I'd be looking for another opinion from a unrelated source.

The mount is rusted and cracked, but that frame appears to be mostly surface rust which almost all frames will have. It's fairly common for the mounts to rust out and/or break without negatively affecting the frame. I've seen (in pictures online) the mounts rusted away to the point that the spring is resting on the bottom of the bed, but the frame is just fine to install a new bracket. Mounts are readily available as noted above.



I wouldn't hesitate to replace that mount myself, but I've got access to the tools and place to do it. Depending on the price quoted for the work, it may be cheaper for you to buy the tools too, plus you'll have the for future projects.

Jack and jack stands to raise and support the truck. Tool set to remove the leaf spring and reinstall the new bracket with bolts. Angle grinder, hammer and chisel/punch for removing the rivets. Wire wheel and paint the frame if desired. Grade 8 bolts, washers, lock washers, and nuts to reinstall the new bracket.

BTW... Two piece frame started in '98, OPs truck is a '97.

 

[rusty ol ranger]

From what i can see of the frame it looks fine.

Id find a new mechanic. I had the drivers side shackles replaced on my 97 F250 that were in way worse shape (not broke though) and the frame looks alot worse and its still solid.