Sombrero Replacement

[Michael B.]

Good morning all,

Need help on sombrero replacement. Body is off of the frame, both of the sombreros are accessible. The right sombrero has a crack about half way up the side of the hat. What would be the best option, replace the cracked one only or replace both? Should the bracket(s) also be replaced at the same time?

Since it would need to be welded back into place, my thought is to replace both the bracket and the sombrero at once. Would this be the way to go?

Thanks for your help

Mike

[Gene M.]

Re: Sombrero Replacement

Mike,
A photo would help us see the condition. Heavy rust, or very clean? Definate to replace cracked one. Other depends on condition. Sand blast area if rusty to determine what you have.

[Steve L.]

Re: Sombrero Replacement

A picture would help.

Make sure that you only replace one at a time since there is no registration alignment for either of them. Leave the best one on, cut out the other one, then use the x-member to tack the new one on. Remove the x-member then finish the weld. Repeat for the second one.

My frame was upside down when I did mine so it was a lot easier.

Also, on the new sombrero, check the welded nut inside to make sure it is welded on really well. To make sure torque it up to spec before you put it on. My new sombrero, from a well known supplier, weld let go before I could torque it up. I had to drill the top out to reweld it since the suspension was already on. That was a pain. And I heard that it does happen.

[Michael B.]

Re: Sombrero Replacement

thank you, Steve for the reploy the frame is all cleaned up & almost ready for paint. I seen the hair line crack when I glass beaded the frame the left side looks ok and thats also a good idea about checking the weld nuts to torque values. thanks,mike

[Steve L.]

Re: Sombrero Replacement

Did you get the rust out from inside the frame?
Also, how are you planing on painting the inside of the frame.

This is why I had my frame acid dipped so that the inside would get de-rusted. Even with that, I had to pick at some of the overlap joints.

I also used a 3M wand to get paint inside the frame. A paint sprayer won't get deep enough into the frame. Then I checked with one of those camera snakes to make sure I got coverage.