As you consider the possibility of truck frame repair for your vehicle, you likely have many questions about the process. After all, a truck’s frame is one of its most crucial elements, which means that repairs to this part of the vehicle come with plenty of concerns and considerations.
Before you begin the process of fixing a truck frame that has been damaged, be sure to ask the appropriate questions so that you can plan accordingly.
Issues That Result in the Need for Truck Frame Repair
Most commonly, truck frame repair is required after a vehicle is in an accident or collision. As the truck bends and disperses shock throughout its body, the frame can sustain damage, resulting in bends or even cracks and breakages.
Because the frame of a truck is generally very robust and large, most individuals do not have the tools required to repair this type of damage on their own and must rely on an experienced auto body shop. This also results in a variety of questions about the process. Five of the most common questions tend to be the following.
Is Driving with a Repaired Frame Legal?
Individuals who have had their truck frames repaired can become concerned that their newly modified vehicle is no longer legal to drive. It is true that many types of repairs or modifications to the frame could compromise the legality of operating the vehicle on highways, and in these cases, it is important to seek “off-highway only” registration.
However, if a qualified fabricator is the one performing the repairs, the vehicle’s structure is typically improved. That being said, always be sure to seek legal advice if you are concerned that your truck is not legally compliant on highways.
Can a Welded Frame Cause Damage to Other Parts of the Truck?
When people consider how a frame is repaired and welded, they are often concerned that it can cause damage to other parts of the vehicle as it is repaired.
In particular, the computer and electronic elements of the truck may be called into question. Experts who take precautionary steps to keep these features of the truck safe should not have an issue with any damage resulting from the frame repair process.
What Sort of Equipment Is Required for This Process?
In addition to welding, a variety of hydraulic tools, chains and lifts will also be required to access and appropriately reshape the truck frame back to manufacturer specifications.
Most individuals do not have these highly specialized equipment types, which is why truck frame repair is generally performed by professionals. Additional tools professionals rely on include precision lasers to ensure that the frame has been restored to exactly its correct shape.
Won’t Welded Frames Crack Under Pressure?
One of the main concerns that tends to worry people when they have their truck frame repaired via welding is that the newly welded areas may be weak, and that strain or a sudden impact on the frame could cause a crack. In some ways, this is true; however, skilled repair technicians will avoid welding or repairing a frame in a manner that compromises its integrity.
This is another reason that individuals are encouraged to rely on a professional truck frame repair shop rather than attempting welding themselves; improper technique could lead to the weakening of surrounding metal that may contribute to cracking and further damage later on. The professionals are experienced with how to weld and repair safely for maximum longevity.
What Kind of Welding Is Best for Truck Frame Repair?
Whether a repairman elects to use MIG welding or TIG welding, the primary concern is not the equipment itself but rather the skill of the welder.
There are many variables that influence the decision about which type of welding to use, but assuming that the skill of the welder is the same, MIG is generally preferred for typical commute-type vehicles. Racing, off-road or other specialized vehicles more commonly received TIG welding.
Rely on the Truck Frame Repair Experts
Whether you are experiencing signs and symptoms that your vehicle has experienced frame damage or you would like to check whether a recent accident or collision has compromised your vehicle’s frame, be sure to work with the experts with years of frame repair experience.
Robs Customs & Restorations would be happy to evaluate the safety and function of your vehicle and answer any questions that you have about the repair process. Reach out to schedule an appointment with an experienced technician so that you can get back to driving as soon as possible in a vehicle that is safe and sturdily repaired.