Frame/Welding questions

[Ty'1987]

The corrosion on the frame of my project truck is terrible. Rust has eaten the braces for the crossmembers and there are holes in the frame that I can see, I'm sure more that I can't.

Is it feasible to source or build a new frame? I am thinking of welding in some new crossmembers and braces, and plating over holes I find. Boxing the frame is also a thought I've had.

I should say I've never welded before; though I've studied up. With all that said..

How much would a new frame cost? What about the cost/ feasibility of a donor frame? Could I make a frame? How much would the materials and tools cost? What kinds of steel should I be making new pieces and patches out of? Can I buy new crossmembers and braces anywhere? And how should I clean the frame of rust(can't sandblast)

 

[Boone83K10]

I would say in the long run it would be cheaper to get a good, used frame from another truck.

 

[crazy4offroad]

I would say in the long run it would be cheaper to get a good, used frame from another truck.

^^This. And before you go adding all your stuff on it, box it and beef it up with more x-members.

 

[Gerks]

I know what I did when I tore mine down a few yrs ago, from the cab back was pretty thin with some holes, so I found a matching frame and just got the section I needed cuz front was wrecked and split it lenfth wise and welded it over top of mine.which to me stiffened up frame an took care of thin spots, but I am a welder by trade, but with a mig welder its not that hars to do once u practice with welder. Just my $.02 oh an some of the bolt holes needed reamed out to remount some things

 

[Ty'1987]

Thanks all. Right now, before bed and tired as hell, that project sounds like some real crazy talk. But I think a used frame would be a better base in the end.