1982 Burro Frame welded, new coupler installed

[MikeCM]

I have owned "my" Burro for 18 months and finally slept in it last weekend. However, the frame had a few issues which are now gone. I tried to take pictures during the process.

This is the drivers side where the frame bends, almost all the way through.




This is the same after being welded
(outside)




(inside)





This is the outside passengers side where the frame bends, much less of a crack but scary enough.




After





This is the inside passengers side where the frame bends, a little more scary.




After (inside)





While fixing the cracks I decided it was time for a new coupler, tank and battery rack.
Old 2" coupler




New 2-5/8" coupler, and larger shelf (I need to cut off the excess, outside the frame.




The welder suggested that if I want to upgrade the whole frame he would fabricate one (at least a few years away).

Can't wait to hit the road and get away next weekend.

Mike

[pjanits]

Those look like proper welds, my 13 ft Burro was repaired the same way 1/4 inch iron sister welded by the previous owner(s) I think it actually broke on one side for them. I never had a problem with it, I would check it every year and every year it looked ok.

[MikeCM]

Thanks Pete. Apparently I was very close to a complete break on the drivers side, the welder decided to go with over kill especially where the frame curved, he thought it was a poor design and would have mitered and welded at an angle if he had built it originally. But at 27 years old I've got nothing to complain about. He added the shelf to help align and tighten the frame too.

Mike