Frame covers?

[kstruckcountry]

There are other holes on the crossmembers that would let water/dust in if the ends were solid. They have run the crossmembers through the frame for a very long time.

[Mike1220]

There are other holes on the crossmembers that would let water/dust in if the ends were solid. They have run the crossmembers through the frame for a very long time.

I mean if the entire tube was solid. Not just the ends

[2016 Sierra Owner]

I mean if the entire tube was solid. Not just the ends

 

If the entire tube was solid. Think of the weight. Remember these manufacturers are lowering all the weight they can (Fords New Aluminum F-150 is said to save 700 lbs.) to save on fuel economy and boost tow rating at the same time.

[kstruckcountry]

They don't even do solid frame pieces on farm equipment that are meant to be heavy. No way they'd do them on a little pickup lol. For frame strength the best upgrade is to go to a boxed frame.

[2014 Sporty Shorty]

To have them solid would just be a huge waste of steel and weight. It's not needed, tubes are plenty strong.

[redwngr]

what is the purpose of these two openings in the frame? I am planning to plug them with some of the plugs mentioned in this thread, but what is the purpose behind even putting these holes here?

 

 

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The tube goes all the way across the frame. It sticks out both sides for welding.