Posted 2021-06-13 9:28 PM (#612738) Subject: 55-56 Era Front Suspension Attachment Points and Weld Quality
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Location: Lower Mainland BC
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While I am in the process of replacing the water pump on my 56 Dodge V8 (315 D500 double rocker in this case), I got side tracked with the cleaning of many (65?) years of crud off the front frame rails and the suspension attachment points. I am posting because a) I am a bit shocked at the quality of welds and b) the difference between sides of the production line. The right side welds are much worse than the left side welds. Pride in workmanship or just better skills/experience? I realize that speed was the top priority, not how pretty the welds were.
I also realize that once I paint the frame (Tremclad semi-gloss black rust paint), the welds are going to disappear.
Posted 2021-06-13 11:20 PM (#612746 - in reply to #612741) Subject: RE: 55-56 Era Front Suspensio Attachment Points and Weld Quality
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Location: Lower Mainland BC
geoffs60 - 2021-06-13 7:05 PM That looks incredibly clean what did you use besides a lot of tedious handywork. I am impressed.
Thanks Geoff. It was tedious. ("The Zen of Cleaning Crud off an old car")
1. Long screw driver = long reach scraper
2. Wire brush in a cordless drill
3. Brass brush
4. Old tooth brush
5. Solvent
6. CRC Brake cleaner with a long red nozzle extension
7. Paper towels
8. Time
9. Time
10. More time
I should have set a time limit, e.g. 4 hours. I think I let it go to about 6 hours in the end.
The photos, which were only intended to show the difference in quality in the appearance of the welds, also show that I missed few spots.
Posted 2021-06-19 2:46 AM (#612903 - in reply to #612746) Subject: RE: 55-56 Era Front Suspensio Attachment Points and Weld Quality
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Posts: 9910
Location: Lower Mainland BC
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Once I painted the frame and cross-member with semi-gloss Tremclad Professional (faster drying), the quality of the welding became a moot point. You can't really see now, so all's good.