Hello All, I had a few cracks originating in the frame just forward of the rear wheel on the drivers side. I'd like to get them repaired (welded up). What type of shop and welding process would be best. I'd like to go into the shop with a little more knowledge. I look forward to your comments. I'll post a picture tonight when I get home. Best regards, Mike.
I'd take it to a body shop or a muffler shop drill a 5/16 hole in the end of the crack,..dremel a Vgroove about a 1/4in wide a minimum of halfway thru and burn it in real good the weld should be just a little higher than the surrounding area
I am not sure exactly where that crack is located, but it might be right where the convertible center boxed section of the frame meets where the frame starts to go back and then up over the rear axle. That center section is very strong, so cracks do happen there from time to time. If memory serves me correct, when I built the "X-Camino" frame I welded that entire area closed so it would stay very strong. The factory left some openings there, when they built the frames, but I welded the boxed sections in solid. Duane
Thanks everyone. It's really not too thick maybe 0.06 two ply. Here's the general position. Thanks again all.
I would grind and use dye penetrant/magnaflux to find the end of the crack, stop drill, then V chanel, weld, grind smooth, re-check for crack/migration, and once done, scab patch weld, grind, sand and then treat/paint. (since you cannot get the the back side). And also clean, check and apply a "mirror" patch to the other side of the car, to keep the repair/strength/flex equal.
That area is where the convertible boxed section ends and the regular frame starts. I would do as stated above and then weld that factory gap/hole up completely. That way it would be nice and solid, with no place to start a crack again. I would also do the other side, even if it is not cracked. Duane
You guys are the absolute best. Can't wait to meet you all in person sometime soon at the Nationals. Mike
