40 Panel Truck Update

Pete Fl/Wi

Pete Fl/Wi

Senior Member
Had my frame sand blasted and found some "swiss cheese" on the frame sides in an area about 8 inches on each side. I am of a mind to not do anything about it, but this is my first frame up build and I thought I would get some opinions. Thanks Pete
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Hi Pete, I think I'd try to patch or replace those sections as long as you've got the body off. Hope you're having fun with the project. Vic
 
Pete,
Since you've gone to all the trouble to remove the body from the frame, I'd recommend going ahead and cutting out the bad stuff and putting in some new metal. Looks like that area is at the front of the rear kickup which is a pretty common area for rust. Somebody on here makes frame repair pieces and if you didn't want to cut the frame apart, you could just use them to create face pieces to replace the bad stuff and leave the upper and lower parts of the rails in place. It's a pretty straight forward repair and isn't rocket science. Make the frame whole and solid and your project will last a lot longer. JMTCW. dw
 
I agree with Don in Norfolk - make it solid. If the upper and lower lips of the rails are OK, I'd support the frame, cut the bad stuff out, and weld in new pieces from similar thickness metal. Buying the repair sections can get expensive and ynless the area is totally gone, welding in bits and pieces isn't too hard or expensive.
 
It would be a piece of cake to just face that portion with some 1/8" plate, since the upper and lower rails are so well preserved. I would definitely repair that.
 
Thanks to all, I took a fresh look at it and see where I could cut out the bad parts and weld in new plate. The upper and lower lips are good.Covering with plate would not work as the body would not fit over. I might as well do it right.
I will post pictures when done. Pete
 
You can do it. Determination and patience can usually overcome an unexpected "opportunity." It will look good the first, or second, or... too often in my case, third or more times! I look forward to your update. Al
 
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I just used the Precision Coachworks pieces on my 40 frame. I recommend them highly.
 
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