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12-05-2021, 11:58 AM
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#1 |
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Registered User
Join Date: Aug 2020
Location: COLLINS
Posts: 7
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Welding on a frame
Hello all! I have a question that I am hoping folks on here may have more experience than me regarding welding on these squarebody truck frames. I am aware folks weld on these frames during thier builds and they don't think twice about how GM stressed relieved or perhaps normalized the frames after the stamping process. Has anybody ever thought or seen these frames crack around a weld repair due to the natural twisting/flexing these trucks encounter on the roads (not rock crawling)?
I have a 1985 K20 that has some pretty good pitting on the lower flange of the frame rail (about 3 foot in length). My concern is that welding on a doubler may affect the frame's heat treatment and develop cracks. Am I overthinking this? I would also like to add I am a competent welder. Thank you. |
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12-05-2021, 12:11 PM
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#2 |
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Post Whore
  
Join Date: May 2015
Location: Alabama
Posts: 14,674
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Re: Welding on a frame
I've welded on a bunch of frames, so far (fingers crossed) never had one crack from welding
But the old saying always goes "never say never"
__________________
Mongo...aka Greg RIP Dad RIP Jesse 1981 C30 LQ9 NV4500..http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=753598 Mongos AD- LS3 TR6060...http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...34#post8522334 Columbus..the 1957 IH 4x4...http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...63#post8082563 2023 Chevy Z71..daily driver |
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12-05-2021, 12:33 PM
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#3 |
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Registered User
Join Date: Aug 2020
Location: COLLINS
Posts: 7
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Re: Welding on a frame
Being an aircraft mechanic I tend to overthink things. LOL. Thank you for your input towards my question. Much appreciated!
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12-07-2021, 10:30 AM
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#4 |
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Moderator
Join Date: Jul 2006
Location: Ozark, MO
Posts: 4,893
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Re: Welding on a frame
I have seen them poorly repaired around the steering box on 4x4 frames, then crack again. But I think it's not due to heat/stress but poor repair.
__________________
'86 GMC C30 Crew ~ '86 C20 Crew ~ '79 K15 Sierra Grande ~ '76 Blazer 2wd ~ '74K10 ~ '71 Cheyenne swb ~'50 3100 bagged ~ '80 Wife ~ Late model kids
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12-08-2021, 12:03 PM
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#5 |
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chevy truck fan
Join Date: Mar 2005
Location: Gilbert, arizona 85298
Posts: 2,009
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Re: Welding on a frame
not sure if it will help, but I did a frame repair on my truck (build in this section) and I have some pics if you are interested. it was in the rear portion at the rear shock mount.
good luck! |
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12-08-2021, 12:46 PM
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#6 |
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Registered User
Join Date: Aug 2020
Location: COLLINS
Posts: 7
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Re: Welding on a frame
Thank you for your input Leevon and Rodstored. I looked at your shock mount weld repair pictures. I feel more confident that welding on these frames is not a big of deal as I have thought...so long as the welds are proper of course.
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12-09-2021, 03:22 PM
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#7 |
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Registered User
Join Date: Nov 2016
Location: Erie, Pa
Posts: 87
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Re: Welding on a frame
don't overthink it, wouldn't be a low budget pulling truck or a snowplow cracked frame repair around if they couldn't be welded by average equipment. Been welding on them since 90's.
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12-09-2021, 04:29 PM
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#8 |
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Robert Olson Transport
 
Join Date: Oct 2002
Location: recent transplant to NC USA
Posts: 20,313
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Re: Welding on a frame
ive had several frames welded over the years, most recently for a custom cab mount on a project.. as long as your welder is good, and skilled you will be fine
__________________
Bob 1951 International running on a squarebody chassis "If a man's worth is judged by the people he associates himself with, then i am the richest man in the world knowing some of the fine people of this board" http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/a...t.php?f=25&a=9 (you can review the site rules here!) PM Me for your vehicle/parts hauling needs in the North East US or see my Facebook page Robert Olson Transport Live each day to the fullest.. you never know when fate is going to pull the rug out from under you... I hate cancer!! |
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