K5 Blazer (1/2 ton) frame question

[RicktheEngineer]

Hey all. I have a question for you. So I have a 1985 K5 Blazer (M1009). The frame is in near mint shape and I love the thing. But I plan to eventually do a 6BT swap on it. Now I'd rather not talk too much on that, but rather the frame where the power steering is. I know that's usually the weak point, but let me ask you this. I am going to be running 14 bolts, and 33's (nothing too big). Would the frame need to be reinforced? I know they sell kits on ORD for that, although I don't know if it's worth it. It'll have smaller tires, but a heavier engine. Would that be a necessary upgrade you think?

 

[CSFJ]

It's generally just a good idea to beef it up in that area. It's a known weak point, and is recommended for off-road, large tires, and towing. I would think that at this point, after 30+ years, that the frames on these trucks have been fatigued enough that it wouldn't hurt to consider it a general maintenance type upgrade.

 

[twinturbo427]

I like where you are going with your Blazer. Sounds like a bulletproof build.
Do it! It is cheap and easy to do, so why not address it and never have to worry.
The cab and chassis trucks, c/k30 that actually worked, and anything with a snowplow were notorious for the steering box frame cracks. It was like a game for me to find them. Truck comes in for service and I would check the steering box area for the telltale red dust. You would be amazed at the range of emotional reactions from the trucks' owners.
If your 6.2 is in good shape and under 200k miles you can do some modifications to fix common problems or aggravations. Better lift pump, glow plug wiring, etc

 

[bucket]

Yep, do the steering brace and plating. A heavier engine puts a little more stress on it too. Speaking of which, how does the Cummins compare in weight to the 6.2?

 

[ballencd]

6.2 weighs in about 700 pounds and the cummins 5.9 almost 1000 pounds.