I own an 1988 ford f-150 4x4 with the inline six and the five speed transmission, while attempting to tow a trailor with too much weight, the frame broke off clean just behind the rear spring hangers. My question is this, I've been told that the truck can be repaired safely, but I plan on giving it to my son when he gets his drivers licence about a year from now. Will it be safe for him, is this a common problem with that year truck, and how should the repair be attempted?

 

The truck can be safely repaired for normal driving by removing the spring hangers and their rivets and running channel down the inside of the frame and plate on the outside with the old frame squished and welded in between them. I would suggest having a pro do it. Though I would never use the truck again to tow anything.

If excessive weight is the reason the frame broke, I am surprised your rear axle and springs are not trashed too.

 

The frame broke while loading a very heavy riding mower onto a trailor, I had noticed some surface rust on the frame over the years but had no Idea the frame was that bad. The weight of the mower on the trailor concentrated on the tow ball snapped the frame.

Thanks for your reply,
Doug Teaster