Frame Repair and Reinforcement
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2018 Ford F-250 Super Duty. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
For information on Ford Color Coded Illustrations refer to OEM COLOR CODING .
Special Tool(s) / General Equipment
| 6.5 mm Drill Bit |
|---|
| Spherical Cutter |
| Grinder |
| Plasma Cutter |
| Air Body Saw |
| 15 mm Drill Bit |
| MIG/MAG Welding Equipment |
| Locking Pliers |
Repair
NOTE:
Frame stress crack repairs can only be performed on chassis cab style open channel frames. Stress crack repairs on frames used on pick up trucks should not be attempted.
NOTE:
The following procedure is intended as a general guideline to repair frame stress cracks. Due to frame high-strength materials used, welding should be kept to a minimum.
- Drill a 6.5 mm (1/4 inch) hole at the base of the crack to reduce possibility of the crack spreading. Use the General Equipment: 6.5 mm Drill Bit
- Bevel grind the crack on both sides
of the frame to allow full weld penetration. Use the General Equipment: Grinder
- Completely MIG weld the crack on both sides
of the frame. Use the General Equipment: MIG/MAG Welding Equipment
-
NOTE: Use caution to avoid excess thinning of the metal.
Grind the weld bead on both sides of the repair. Use the General Equipment: Grinder
- Create a reinforcement of comparable steel extending at least 50 mm beyond the repair each side
. Use the General Equipment: Air Body Saw Use the General Equipment: Spherical Cutter Use the General Equipment: Plasma Cutter
- Install the reinforcement on the inboard side of the frame, clamp and drill fastener holes. Refer to: Drilling Precautions . Use the General Equipment: Locking Pliers Use the General Equipment: 15 mm Drill Bit
- Install 13 mm (1/2 inch) SAE flange head grade 8 bolts and nuts.
Torque: 115 lb.ft (156 Nm)
- Refinish the entire repair using a Ford approved paint system.
- Restore corrosion protection. Refer to: Corrosion Prevention .