frame welding info
Thread Starter
Instructor
Joined: Mar 2003
Posts: 174
Likes: 0
From: Eustis fl
frame welding info
Well, I have my frame stripped, its in pretty good shape I think, but I found a weak spot from rust on the frame rail where it meets the kickup. I have no welding background, but I do have a small oxy/ace unit. Is there a better way to weld in a patch in that area? Or is any type of weld ( oxy/ac, mig, or any other) suitable for the job? I've got the frame rail cap and the gusset ahead of it removed and I can see up the frame rail it looks pretty good shape, although some pitting, I think its very solid though. Gonna por15 it all the way up. Thanks for any advice you can give me
Tech Contributor
Joined: Aug 1999
Posts: 14,380
Likes: 6,390
From: At my Bar drinking and wrenching in Lafayette Colorado
Oxy-Fuel welding is not the way to do it... there is a reason why NHRA does not allow roll cages welded to this process. GMAW ("Mig") is the easiest and most sure-fire way to get the sections welded in there with full penetration and good fusion. If you're more skilled and have access to the much more expensive welder, the GTAW ("Tig") process will produce outstanding results.
I have access to both GMAW and GTAW systems, and I chose to use the "Mig." Here is my frame welding in process and after completion:
Frame sanblasted and ready to cut. Stiffening bars welded in place to keep it from twisting dusing the cutting && welding:
SawZall makes quick work of the cutting:
Once cut, time to prep:
Fit-up complete and time to weld:
GMAW ("Mig") welding complete and finish-grinding in process:
Better than new. Stiffeneing bars were cut off after the other side was also completed:
Frame complete:
...and painted:
I have access to both GMAW and GTAW systems, and I chose to use the "Mig." Here is my frame welding in process and after completion:
Frame sanblasted and ready to cut. Stiffening bars welded in place to keep it from twisting dusing the cutting && welding:
SawZall makes quick work of the cutting:
Once cut, time to prep:
Fit-up complete and time to weld:
GMAW ("Mig") welding complete and finish-grinding in process:
Better than new. Stiffeneing bars were cut off after the other side was also completed:
Frame complete:
...and painted:
Team Owner
Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 37,637
Likes: 3,118
From: Crossville TN
If you have the frame prepped, the damaged sections removed from the frame, and new pieces to weld back into place, you should call a mobile welder who is qualified and experienced at doing this work so that you can have confidence in the integrity of the repaired frame and in your safety. Unless you have someone qualified and experienced with you and you have adequate equipment, you really shouldn't take on repairs to structural members of your car. Just sayin....
