Frame crossmembers rotted

[mandack]

I have a 99 Ranger 4x2 6' bed that has some frame rust through on two of the transverse members. The first is the one that runs between the frame rails towards the front of the gas tank. The other is the rear member that the spare tire rack bolts to (and that is also rotted nearly clean away and held up with bungee cords).

I want to remove the bed and replace these two frame pieces, I won't be replacing the spare tire holder, but I can not find any mention of how to do this or where to find the parts. I have already replaced all four leaf spring mounts as described in this post:

http://www.therangerstation.com/forums/archive/index.php/t-20421.html

Any help/advise and info on where to get parts would be appreciated.

 

[Shran]

I'd just remove the old crossmembers and use some C channel or something to replace them.

 

[metalmacguyver]

For the actual replacement part, try going through Ford though I will warn you, they may try to wallet rape you.

As to how to replace them.....

Remove the bed, grind off the rivets, punch them out, remove the crossmember, put the new one in, replace the rivets with 1/2" grade 8 hardware.


Welcome to the forum!

 

[mandack]

For the actual replacement part, try going through Ford though I will warn you, they may try to wallet rape you.

As to how to replace them.....

Remove the bed, grind off the rivets, punch them out, remove the crossmember, put the new one in, replace the rivets with 1/2" grade 8 hardware.


Welcome to the forum!

Thank you. I think this is what I will need to do since this is an on road vehicle and needs to pass the safety inspection and home made parts won't cut it (though they might actually be better!).

I just called my local Ford dealer and they don't seem to be able to even locate the parts I need in their book. I guess I will have to go there and point them out in the picture so they understand as they keep trying to sell me an entire frame.

Thanks again.

 

[ForOffRoadDriving]

like metalmac said you will have to grind or drill the rivets out to remove the crossmembers. the dealer will be your only hope unless you can fab up your own or have access to a parts truck. i used a torch when i removed all the rivets on my 94 but you can also use an angle grinder and grind them off or use a cut off wheel and cut an X in the head of the rivet and then use a chisel or air hammer to remove it. the cross member above the front of the tank is tied into two brackets that attach at the sides of the frame rails. inspect these also as mine were very rotted and needed patching. good luck and welcome to your new second home