Frame fix/replacement

[84dragcutlass]

Ok first things im gonna be dragging my wrecked 79 ss elcamino home from its resting place in the junkyard where it has sat for a year and a half. the frame is bent about a foot over in the front from a t-bone accident with a honda (guess who won) Is there anyway to reclip the front section of the frame where the factory welded it? Or do i have to replace the whole frame. I have the clip peice just didnt know if it was possible to get it right. Need any advise i can get guys, thanks.

 

[Longroof79]

Josh,
Is there a possibility that it could be straightened on a frame machine? That might be worth looking into. As far as adding a clip. I suppose it could be done, much like adding a subframe to an old hot rod.

 

[joe_padavano]

Josh,
Is there a possibility that it could be straightened on a frame machine? That might be worth looking into. As far as adding a clip. I suppose it could be done, much like adding a subframe to an old hot rod.

When these cars were new, you could buy repair frame sections from the dealership parts counter. The frame is just mild steel, there's no magic to welding it other than good workmanship. If you can grind out the old factory welds and attach the new section at those places, so much the better, but it's not mandatory. Of course, you may find that it's cheaper to just get a whole frame than to get a piece of one and cut and weld. Frankly, decent G-body Caminos are not terribly expensive anyway, you might want to just get a whole new one and avoid the problems.

 

[84dragcutlass]

I have a clip just might be easier to replacwe the whole frame it seems. Jack, i dont know much about the frame machines but idk if they could bend the front horns back as bad as they r on this one

 

[justwhisen]

yes you can clip it. I have done it many times on dirt track Gbody cars. only difference is your going to be driving this one on the street. If this is the way your going the only thing I can suggest is that you MAKE SURE IT IS SQUARE. But to tell you the truth there isn't anymore work in replacing the whole frame, and while you got the body off you can paint the frame and undercoat the cabin. I am in the same boat with my 83 cutlass I plan on doing a frame swap. Just to make sure all the geometry is and will stay in its stock location.

 

[84dragcutlass]

Heck if u need a frame i got a few. Need to find an elcamino one though if thats just the best way to go as far as alignment of everythin goes

 

[Longroof79]

Josh,
In the long run, you're probably better off replacing the entire frame. I guess El Camino frames are starting to get harder to come by...but they're out there.
Good luck!

 

[oldtinsmith]

84dragcutlas,
I agree with the get a straight frame and swap it out group. I looked for one from Texas to Maine ( e-bay ). The one from Texas was $900.00 plus shipping ( GULP :shock: )! My search for a SOLID frame ended just 60 miles from my home. Thebare frame was a solid no rust one, and was $320.00 delivered to my shop.
Joe_padavano is right, they aren't that exspensive and can still be found!

Doug