55 TF Stretched Cab/Fleetside/LSx/Trailblazer Frame

[ricott]

Yesterday afternoon I pulled the sheet metal and ground out the tack welds where the front and back sections of the frame slip together. I used a come along to pull the frame sections in another 1 and 1/2 inches. It really went quickly. After checking all the measurements to verify the frame was square (same process as I did the first time), I tacked it up, checked everything, then began welding each frame rail a little at a time. I was working on cutting out the rear cab supports and other items, so I did not lose any time while I let the welds cool. Here is the top of the frame where it slips together, you can see the taper.



I plan to "fish plate" the sides of the frame in the joint area - it probably is overkill, but it is an added precaution. I then re-installed the cab last night. This afternoon, I came home a little early to work on the rear cab mounts. After mocking them up with everything in place, I tacked them up and removed the cab. You can see how much I had to move the rear supports back.



Here is the cab and frame.



I don't have more than two to three hours to have the frame completed. I had planned to push the frame aside, move the cab to the middle of the garage, and begin welding it up. Now I am seriously considering mounting the engine and tranny and doing the exhaust/fuel system next. It would be sweet to here the engine make some noise again (even if it is just on bare rails). We will see this weekend. As always, there is more to come.

Ricky

Time spent on Tuesday/Wednesday: 6.5 hours
Total time: 111.0