Welding aftermarket core support cross member to frame?

[siggyfreud]

Hey all,

Installing my Porterbuild front core support cross member. I got the top aligned after some work, but really having a hard time getting the bottom aligned perfectly to the bolt holes. I've tried really hammering it in, but the curve of the frame is preventing it from going the last .25" or so. It's right at the mark where it's also difficult to elongate the hole with a bit, and elongating them would also mean a less-than-precise fit between the bolt and crossmember. The top holes are bolted with a tight-fitting 7/16" bolt.

Assuming it is aligned with where the mounting spots for the rad support on the old crossmember were, do you see any issues with welding it to the frame? There are multiple places where I could get a 1+" bead to ensure it's secure.

[leonphelps]

would take it out, weld the hole shut, then re-drill the hole at the correct place. five years down the road this could bite you in the you know where.

I would also be sure to call the maker and tell them of their error. they will surely tell you that your frame is askew.

[siggyfreud]

Thanks for the info. Would I be missing out on any rigidity benefits by not welding it in. Reading over on HAMB seems a lot of guys both bolt and weld crossmembers in place.

[ImpalaJim]

I would weld the side and ream the 2 Im not to keen on drilling a weld.

[Sik5chevy]

I would do the same as Leon phelphs. I would fill it and drill it and wouldn't think twice about it. There is more than one way to skin a cat though

[Captainfab]

A bolted crossmember is always better than a welded crossmember. A bolted crossmember allows a frame to flex as it needs to without stressing the HAZ around the welds and leading to possible cracks. It does however depend on how and where the welding is done.