Bowed frame

[Jdkraft88]

We’ve finally started a frame off renovation of our 1970 Overlander in the past few weeks. We have the the shell off and everything stripped off the frame.

The curbside has the typical bend you’d expect from the frame and can be brought to level easily with jacks. The street side has a much more significant drop. On closer inspection there is actually a hump in the street side rail at the level of the axels. The main rail and the axel plate on that side are bent from what looks like it was high centered at some point. Three bolts were placed through the bent plate to try and reinforce the area.

What are my options to fix it? We knew there was a descent possibility of needing a new frame but if there is another option I’d be all game. The frame is otherwise in descent condition. A few outriggers need to be replaced and the plate near the door is eaten away but the rest is pretty good.

[Jdkraft88]

My photos aren’t the best but we just had a storm role in with 40 mph winds. I can get more tomorrow.

[Belegedhel]

Take it to a welding shop, preferably one that is in the business of repairing/fabricating utility trailers. I imagine they will know just what to do with it, and I would be surprised if the solution is to build a whole new frame.

good luck!

[Jdkraft88]

Thanks, we were going to start searching out a welder next week. I was hoping that the axle mounting plate could be taken off, rail straightened then reattached but that seems like a pipe dream.