steering box holes

[GMC500]

hello all

I've noticed when the steering wheel is moved the steering box will have a slight movement

so yesterday I've removed box and noticed that the bolts were loose and the holes in the frame are a bit larger ( with irregular shape ) but fortunately there are no signs of cracks


the previous owner have welded a plate on the inner side of the frame ( but its holes are big also ) and I don't want to mess with it

my question is
is it OK to weld a small plate on the outer side ( where the steering box mounts )? and will that affect the geometry of the steering system ?

my rig is a 1986 GMC K15 and the steering system is completly stock

thanks

 

[BKinzey]

Most of the frame kits have a plate that you weld on to the outside so you could buy one of those or make your own. Whatever you do I suggest you use grade 8 bolts and red lock-tite when you put it back together.