Frame Repair??
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New User
Joined: Nov 2002
Posts: 5
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Frame Repair??
I recently scored a great deal on a 91' F150 4x4, 351 auto, with a plow. The only bad thing about the truck is on the Passenger side of the frame, right in front of the radius arm there is a weak spot, where it started to rust through. Its a real shame since the body is in great shape, as well as the rest of the truck. Everywhere on the frame is almost perfect except for this one weak spot that is about a 1/4 inch wide and 1 inch long rusted out spot. Has anyone ever repaired something like this? If so what did you have to do? Short of replacing the frame mind you. Thanks for any info!!
Jason
Jason
Elder User
Joined: Apr 2002
Posts: 541
Likes: 0
From: Victoria, Texas
Frame Repair??
I have just stick welded a plate of mild steel over cracks, etc. after welding them up first. This was done on a '68 International which stays off-road, although I can say it has held up to a helluva beating. (it was on a leaf spring mount) I'm sure some will tell you this was not safe, and I'm sure there are better ways of doing it, but it worked for me. Just my $.02
Travis
Travis
Post Fiend
Joined: Nov 2002
Posts: 9,987
Likes: 7
From: Memphis, TN
Frame Repair??
It's a perfectly fine way of repairing a frame, as long as the plate is designed properly. For this application, it should be a diamond shape with 2 long points in the middle of the frame rail pointing front & rear, and the other 2 at the top & bottom of the rail. For even better strength, wrap the top & bottom points all the way around the frame flanges. Weld a solid bead along the whole perimeter of the diamond, but do it in sections to prevent hardening the frame or plate.
