General Frame Recommendations

The frame is the structure that carries and supports the rated load under anticipated driving conditions and secures the major components of a vehicle in their relative positions. The frame assembly consists of 2 sidemembers and depending upon the length of the frame, 5 or more crossmembers.

It is very important that the frame be inspected periodically for cracks, buckling, crossmember loosening or other damage that may cause eventual failure of the frame. Additional inspections should be made whenever the chassis has been overloaded or involved in an accident. An alignment check is not sufficient since local cracks, crossmember loosening or sidemember buckling will not necessarily cause misalignment.

On reinforced sidemember sections, when cracks exist in either of the sidemember sections, the members must be separated for repair. The 2 sidemember sections must not be welded together. After the weld repairs, the sections should be reinforced with the appropriate section and re-assembled with mounting bolts tightened to SAE Grade 8 torque levels.For additional information, refer to: Frame Repair and Reinforcement .