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11-17-2008, 01:11 PM | #1 |
Registered User
Join Date: Nov 2004
Location: Brenham, Texas
Posts: 79
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Frame ?
My frame is in pretty good shape. If there is minimal or normal rust between the cab supports, or crossmembers and the frame, is there any need to remove them and use bolts to put them back on? And, are the original rivits better (stronger) than the bolts?
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11-17-2008, 03:09 PM | #2 |
Senior Member
Join Date: Aug 2006
Location: Minnesota
Posts: 943
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Re: Frame ?
I wouldnt pull any of the riveted parts apart unless you have to. As for the strength of them pull a couple apart and you will have pretty good respect for those rivets.
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11-17-2008, 03:42 PM | #3 |
Neighborhood Pickle Slinger
Join Date: Jan 2007
Location: Cadolzburg, Bavaria, Germany
Posts: 2,224
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Re: Frame ?
The only thing I know that is stronger than rivets is welding.
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11-17-2008, 06:25 PM | #4 |
Registered User
Join Date: Nov 2004
Location: Brenham, Texas
Posts: 79
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Re: Frame ?
Thanks, I will leave them alone.
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11-17-2008, 08:49 PM | #5 |
Registered User
Join Date: Mar 2007
Location: Connecticut
Posts: 581
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Re: Frame ?
Hey DJ, What gives the rivet strength is the tight fit achieved from the swage/peening when it is installed. These are tough to remove. I grind one side off flush and then drive them out with a stout drift and BFH. You will notice a 3/8" bolt fits loosley, do not use them! Even grade 8.
I personally don't trust this, because if bolt to part fit isn't tight, it will eventually loosen and slot the frame/part holes resulting in failure. So what I have done is drill out the frame and part (crossmember,mount, etc) with a 7/16" drill being carefull to not enlarge it with a sloppy drill job. Then pick up some grade 8 fine thread 7/16" bolts, nuts and washers and you will be all set. Just make sure the nuts and washers are grade 8 also, and torque them to 70lbs. If your really worried about it you can go up to 1/2" This is plenty strong enough to trust IMO. chas
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11-18-2008, 12:42 PM | #6 |
Registered User
Join Date: Nov 2004
Location: Brenham, Texas
Posts: 79
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Re: Frame ?
Thanks Chas,
The frame is in good shape, I will leave it alone, unless I decide to shorten it. |
11-18-2008, 04:40 PM | #7 |
Registered User
Join Date: Mar 2002
Location: Midlothian, Tx
Posts: 156
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Re: Frame ?
OK, so the PO of my blazer went the 3/8 route and I had considered going to the 7/16th bolt. I still was leary about that. If I square everything up good and watch the heat, do you guys think it might be better to just weld up the frame?
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11-18-2008, 08:19 PM | #8 |
Registered User
Join Date: Mar 2007
Location: Connecticut
Posts: 581
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Re: Frame ?
DJ, dont let that rust go!
NV I have heard that welding frames can lead to cracks. What are we considering to weld? cab mount, cross member, spring hanger,etc? Its hard to help with out more info. chas
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"I'll Procrastinate Tomorrow" quote by LEEVON 71 K10 long fleet (sons truck) new 370hp 355, sm465 np205, 3.73's 33's 70 K20 long fleet 98 G3500 work van |
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