Frame Straightening

Frame Straightening

1. WARNING: Frame rail crush zones absorb crash energy during a collision and must be replaced if damaged. Straighten damaged frame rails to correct frame dimensions prior to frame member sectioning. Failure to follow these instructions may adversely affect frame rail performance and may result in serious personal injury to vehicle occupant(s).

When straightening the frame, make sure the following requirements are met:

- NOTICE: Reposition and/or shield any fuel lines, brake lines, or wiring harness or component in the heated area.

If heat is needed to straighten a frame member, keep the temperature below 650°C (1,202°F) (a dull red glow). A temperature sensitive thermal melt crayon should be used to monitor heat buildup.

- Heat should be kept to a minimum area so that the hardness of the metal is not affected.

- Straightening should only be attempted on frames that fail to meet specifications of the diagonal checking method or where damage is apparent.

- Straightening should be limited to parts which are not severely bent.

- Reposition and/or shield any fuel lines, brake lines, or wiring harnesses or components in heated area.