Frame issues

[Mcveytwobits]

Hi everyone,not new to your forum just first time posting. I recently purchased a 69 31’ International with the intentions of just a cosmetic makeover but that all changed as soon as the demo started inside. With the help of all the threads on this forum I have been able to figure out how to repair everything so far, rear frame sag, rusted out outriggers, rotten subfloor and leaks everywhere. The problem I have now is the complete tongue assembly is questionable due to rust. I planned on fabricating the complete assembly back to where it ties on to the main 5” C channel. While taking measurements and checking everything for square I discovered the center of the ball hitch is 1/2” off center of the main frame rails. I guess my question is do I rebuild it to the way it is or center the hitch with the frame rails ? I towed it about 40 miles to get it to the shop and it seemed to trailer fine. Thanks for any advice

[Belegedhel]

Welcome to the Forums!

Ah... So many shell-offs started with the intention to do some superficial sprucing....Mine included.

As to your question, on the one hand you have the old addage "if it ain't broke, don't fix it," vs. "as long as I am doing it , do it right."

I would recommend taking a measurement from the tip of the coupler back to each of the wheel hubs. It may be that your coupler is off center with respect to the frame rails, but perfectly aligned with the axles, and therefore it pulls just fine as is. If it is off center with respect to the wheel hubs, then correct it, if not, rebuild it exactly as it is today.

Good luck!

[r carl]

I would build a stronger new frame.

[Mcveytwobits]

Thanks for the advice, as soon as I get the new axles installed I will take some measurements