Notice: Some frames are constructed of heat-treated steel. Do not weld or drill
these frames. The use of heat in excess of 606°C (1200°F) can
weaken, cause distortion, and change the characteristics of the steel.
Frame straightening may be a complicated process and usually
requires some special equipment. Only trained technicians should perform a
frame straightening procedure.
Conduct a complete analysis of the frame condition before beginning
the straightening process in order to determine the correct sequence of steps
for the repair procedure. Refer to
Frame Conditions
and
Minimizing Frame Service Description
. Identify the frame material before beginning
the repair procedure. Refer to
Frame and Underbody Description
.
Adhere to the following instructions while conducting the repair procedure:
• | Apply pressure from different directions in order to reverse the
flow of damaging forces. |
• | Control the temperature and the application of the heat. |
• | Heat the frame using a large sized tip (multi-hole heating tip)
and a neutral flame. Keep the oxygen opened just enough to remove the feathers
or the stringers from the blue center at the tip of the torch. |
• | Heat the area that will be stretched as the frame is straightened. |
• | Heat the area after exerting sufficient pressure. A slight checking
or some silvery cracks will appear on the surface of the metal when heating
it at an adequate pressure. |
• | Gradually increase the pressure while heating the metal. |
• | A red glow is an indication of overheating. |