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When a uni-body frame is bent or distorted there is a limitation to how much damage can be repaired and have the frame retain at least some of it's initial integrity.

As well, the procedure to actually straighten the frame, from what I understand, is actually a component of the limitation to repair the frame.

Can someone explain the procedure and mechanisms used in the frame straightening process as well as the limitations?

How does a technician that is charged with straightening the frame measure whether or not the frame can be repaired?

DucatiKiller
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1 Answers1

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Having finally had the frame on my Yamaha 750 Super Tenere, straightened on a jig and re-welded, I have some info from the guys who did it:

  • The two methods they use are tension - pulling using chains, and pressure - hydraulically forcing the frame to conform to a template.
  • For minor deformation, it's a relatively safe bet with modern (and reasonably old frames) that steel will cope. Obviously certain more exotic materials won't - it's down to malleability and brittleness; the science of elastic and plastic deformation of metals
  • Welds are more likely to be brittle than structural members, but are more replaceable, so a crash that has snapped joints may actually be easier to recover than one where the members have all suffered major bends
  • Because of the various angles, welds, cross members etc in a frame, they don't rely on any actual maths to identify whether it will be recoverable - they rely on experience. A major crash may be an obvious no-no, and a very minor dunt may be obviously easy, but that dividing line is tricky - and they work on a scale of more or less likely...and then just try it
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Rory Alsop
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