'61 C1 Frame Repair Help

[Dana S.]

Need suggestions on the best way to repair this frame such that it appears correct; and is safe. The rear cross member is absolutely too far gone and I have already decided to replace it. I have no intention to mislead anyone about the nature of the repair, but I don't want it to have a frankenstein appearance. I've read the recent threads about cutting in a small patch and that may work for small hole, but there isn't much remaining of the other.

Thanks,

Dana Smith

IMG_0053.jpgIMG_0037.jpg

[William C.]

Re: '61 C1 Frame Repair Help

Start by finding out just how much damage ther is. Use a hammer and apply liberally in the soft area until you reach solid metal. That will give you some insight as to how bad is bad, If the body is off the frame, think about dipping or blasting the frame (dipping preferred) then do a good examination, especially of the lower area where moisture will collect. I've seen frames bad enough you could crush them with you bare hand, and were unsalvagable. many nice parts are available for repairs, but they all require some structure to attach them to.

[Dana S.]

Re: '61 C1 Frame Repair Help

The damage is localized to the rear crossmember area. I do plan to throughly clean and dip the frame to make sure there is no more damage, but I'm confident that is the only soft spot. It appears that all the metal that supports the crossmember needs replacement, the question is how?