One Man, One Wrench - My New Chassis

[Apis Mellifera]

I'm very much "get the job done", so I haven't fallen into the "while I'm at it" trap. Although, I'm doing a complete brake rebuild and I discovered that the right side swivel pin/bushing is worn. I noticed a big camber change while jacking up the front.

The job that has thus far bested me is the removal of the two long bolts that attach the bulkhead to the chassis. In my case, this means drilling out. I've broken/burned a half dozen bits so far. Fortunately, I stocked up on 1/8th inch, but it's a long way up to 1/2.

[RoverDover]

I know what you mean about trying not to do everything, but I could never reinstall a rusty bulkhead on a new chassis. If it is solid I would have sent it out for galvanizing. That is why when I repaint my chassis this summer I am not disassembling anything.

[JackIIA]

Map gas? That's worked on many a bolt for me. Looks like you've got it on, so are you saying they are seized inside the bulkhead? If so, I'd still use heat and a punch.

[amcordo]

I'm very much "get the job done", so I haven't fallen into the "while I'm at it" trap. Although, I'm doing a complete brake rebuild and I discovered that the right side swivel pin/bushing is worn. I noticed a big camber change while jacking up the front.

The job that has thus far bested me is the removal of the two long bolts that attach the bulkhead to the chassis. In my case, this means drilling out. I've broken/burned a half dozen bits so far. Fortunately, I stocked up on 1/8th inch, but it's a long way up to 1/2.

When you're putting it back together replace them with stainless steel bolts. I did. I'm sure I'll love me for doing it when I swap the frame shortly.

[Apis Mellifera]

I've attached a load of pictures that basically shows why I needed to do this. I knew the chassis was bad, but I didn't realize how bad. The rear had been patched many years ago with a piece of steel channel and two plates. The outriggers were either patched or just rotted away. There are many holes throughout and the metal in the areas that look OK is so thin that I'm surprised the whole thing didn't collapse - especially considering a few months ago I carried 1200 pounds of topsoil in the back.

I was able to start the truck today and once the brake parts arrive, I'll be back on the road.

PS: The old chassis is free to anyone that wants it. Location is 25177

[Apis Mellifera]

[mrdoiron]

I've attached a load of pictures that basically shows why I needed to do this. I knew the chassis was bad, but I didn't realize how bad. ......

Wow, it certainly didn't look like it would have that kind of deterioration under the way the rig looked - lucky you hadn't ran into issues prior...

good call for sure on the swap, and great to see the progress...

mike

[Firemanshort]

Ah... that frame don't look too bad (snicker / snicker)

One serious question, I saw that the old frame still had the wiring harness threaded through it (at least the back portion). What did you do about wiring harness and brake lines with the new frame? Those are the little things that get me side-tracked with shipfitter's disease.

[Apis Mellifera]

New kunifer brake pipes are on order and the wiring was removed and installed the same way in the new chassis.

I discovered a severely worn swivel pin and bush on one side so there have been things that have cropped up, but the plan from the start was to get the job done as quick and cheap as possible.

[msggunny]

Crap. thats one Holy frame, did the Pope bless it?

Mine is no where that bad, but i am in the process of going through the same thing right now.

Only problem is that i have lost my motivation due to fishing season.

Really really got to get back out in the shed.....

[scott_b]

Nice! Thanks for the pics and the info.