Can You Weld A Cracked Truck Frame?

Undesirable cracks are enough to ruin the entire appearance of your truck frame. But everyone can’t spend a fortune to get into the replacement straight away.

So, can you weld a cracked truck frame? Let’s get the real truth about it right here in this article. 

Can Welding Fix A Cracked Truck Frame

Yes, you can fix a cracked truck frame by Welding and following the proper steps. That said, it will not be a DIY project, especially if you’re a beginner welder.

If you still try, there is a high chance of ending up in an unsafe situation for the passengers and drivers. On top of that, it’s known to be “illegal” in some states.

What Kind Of Welder Do I Need To Weld A Truck Frame

Basically, there is no single best welding type available to weld a cracked truck frame. After researching, I’ve found a couple of welding processes you may try to get your job done.

Let’s see what they are:

Metal Inert Gas Welding

 Here comes the most common welding type you may try to weld your cracked frame. Yes, I’m talking about the Metal Inert Gas known for its ease, quickness, and efficacy.

Speaking of compatibility, it suits welding sheet metal, heavy steel, alloy, and many more. 

Tungsten Inert Gas Welding

If you’re fond of cleanliness and precision, then nothing can beat the efficacy of TIG welding. With a tig welding rod, you can efficiently weld truck frame to mend its cracks.

It ensures the maximum accuracy needed to fill the cracks in your truck frame. But unfortunately, its equipment is a bit steep, and you’ll find it more complicated than MIG.

Stick Welding

Lastly, stick welding doesn’t require an extra shielding gas in welding your cracked truck frame. Moreover, beginners will find the process cost-efficient and a complete snap to try out. You just need a stick electrode and a stick welder machine to start the process.

But unfortunately, stick welding tends to generate extra debris during the welding process, which is what you can’t overlook.

How Do You Repair A Cracked Truck Frame by Welding?

Let’s get right into the steps on how to repair a cracked truck frame. For this, I’d like to use a MIG welder as it’s easier, more efficient, and faster than the other options.

• Step-1: Surface Cleaning of the Cracked Frame

I guess there is no rocket science! If you don’t pay attention to cleaning the truck frame surface thoroughly, you won’t easily repair the cracked parts.

So, I’d highly recommend getting yourself clean paper towels or something like that to tidy the area.

Additionally, it’s better to clean the stubborn spots using a frame cleanser or stuff like that.

• Step 2: Switch on the Welding Machine

Before you turn it on, it’s better to individually observe the joint of your truck frame, including the bottom, front, and side.

Thus, you can better understand which crack part should be welded with better care.

Once you’ve done it, turn your MIG welder on and observe the current strength, confirming the mediocre heat level.

If everything appears correct, start welding the cracked parts without any rush.

And avoid choosing inappropriate filler material, as it will result in excessive spatter production.

• Step-3: Truck Joint Observation

Have you finished the back-breaking task? If so, it’s time to observe every joint thoroughly and find the issues to solve later.

But never touch the joint immediately after the weld, as you’ll find it hotter than usual.

What To Focus On When Welding A Cracked Truck Frame?

For safe truck frame welding, it’s crucial to focus on the following things I’ve listed down below:

• First, pay attention to the cracked parts to ensure whether they’ve cracked too badly or slightly. It doesn’t make sense to weld those parts if they get destroyed. In such cases, you will have to go for a replacement.
• Aren’t you a certified or trained welder who can repair any frame? If not, don’t try it yourself, as it’s not child’s play.
• Last, cracked frame welding isn’t a legal job in every state. So, it’s very important to learn about its legality before you get into Welding.

Cracked Truck Frame Welding Common Mistakes and How to Fix Them

Here, I’ve listed the two most common mistakes and the way of fixing them while welding a cracked frame:

Mistake-1: Overheating

Unsurprisingly, your whole effort will go in vain if you apply excess heat during a weld. Because already, your frame gets cracked, which  is why it won’t take that much heat.

How to Fix Them:

• After turning on the welder, ensure you’ve adjusted the heat to a mediocre level.

Mistake 2: Applying Inappropriate Fillers

As the frame already gets weaker, it doesn’t make sense to apply dirt-cheap filler materials to fill the gaps and eliminate the cracks in frames!

How to Fix Them: 

• Based on the material of your truck, make sure to spend a bit higher on the correct filler that can smoothly deal with cracks and gaps.

Safety Precautions When Welding a Cracked Truck Frame

• Don’t try it yourself if you’re a beginner because Welding cracked parts is challenging.
• Before Welding, wear gloves, a helmet, goggles, a face mask, boots, and a welding jacket.
• Make sure you’ve plugged the cord correctly.
• It’s a must to weld on an area that is 100% fire-safe.

Last Words

That was all for today about “can you weld a cracked truck frame or not. “As you know, it’s going to be a hectic job for you to deal with cracks unless you go through the steps I’ve mentioned above.

And before you weld, make sure your state has made it legal. 

Frequently Asked Questions (F.A.Q):