Flipp'in Frame Time

Bertha's frame got some flipp'in attention this weekend.

On Saturday -

• Old crusty floor bolts were brought to heel with a Matabo angle grinder. 

• Sans bolts, the floor was removed with relative ease using a variety of crow bars. The dog didn't help at all.
• Wheel well covers came off with the floor! Who knew?

• Nasty old insulation was removed by hand and a paint scraper. Did I mention our Matabo grinder? Fabulous tool!

• Crusty bolt remains were popped out of the frame and into a bucket with a hammer and punch.
• Surface rust was removed with a twisted wire cup brush on a Makita side grinder.
• Bent cross member was straightened with a piece of angle iron, a cold chisel, a ball peen hammer, and a sledge hammer. My husband is soooo awesome!

At the end of the day, we identified two major areas of rot - the rear of the trailer and the front curbside frame channel. We knew the rear had rust issues and hoped we'd only have to replace the final cross member and a few outriggers. Ultimately, the back 5 feet of trailer needs to be completely replaced - side channels, two cross members and all outriggers. We also identified at least 3 additional outriggers that must be replaced. 

Extensive rot in the front curbside frame channel was a surprise. Water must have gotten into that channel years ago and couldn't get out. The bottom of the channel is rusted all the way through (see the light at the bottom of the channel), and the inside wall is badly corroded as well. That space is going to demand some creative welding, but I have no doubt Scott will figure it out.

On Sunday - 

• Built two saw horses to hold the frame. 

• Removed tires and axles. So glad we have an impact wrench!
• Lifted the frame with our tractor (one end at a time) and put the saw horses in place.
• Flipped the frame with the tractor and some fancy rope work to further inspect it. 

If you couldn't see that hole in the channel before, you can certainly see it now!

Next weekend Bertha's lower half has a date with a sandblaster and a paint gun. 

We'll let you know how it goes.