Warning - "A" Frame Rust

[colnce]

Does your vintage caravan "A" frame have box section steel beams and does the electrical cable for the lights, i.e. stop, tail, indicators, etc, etc, run INSIDE the box section via holes cut in the side of the box section? Is the back end of the box section CLOSED OFF by maybe a bracket welded on the end?

This is the case with my 1968 Viscount and while under the front of the van recently I noticed a small "rust" hole in the bottom of the beam with the wire through it. Further investigation indicated a more serious situation.

Over 40 plus years, dust and dirt have been able to get inside the beam via the wiring hole and with water getting in also made for a perfect rust catalyst.

This was potentially an accident waiting to happen as the rusty beam could have snapped at any time, probably destroying the van possibly the tow car and who knows what or who else! Repairs are underway, I have had metal sections folded and they will be welded over the whole length of the "A" frames.

Please, whether you are going to the Nationals or around the block, have your "A" frame checked.

Sorry I won't be at Broken Hill as I had to withdraw due to health issues. Safe motoring.

Cheers
Colin (colnce)

[Roehm3108]

"I have had metal sections folded and they will be welded over the whole length of the "A" frames."

Why wouldn't you just replace the "A" frame, rather than putting new cloth over old???

[colnce]

Roehm 3108. G'Day. The rust is in the bottom of the box section. The folded pieces are unequal angle ie 3 x 1 1/2. These will go on the inside and around the bottom of the frame and welded in place and also give additional strength. The outside and top stays original. Why, probably stronger than original and cost effective.

I maybe overstated the "accident about to happen" in my post but i wanted people, VV'ers to be aware of the danger. Many times we concentrate on cosmetics and safery issues are overlooked.

Colin

[thomas]

Hi Colin,

Some pictures of what you've encountered would be great, as I've just commenced the restoration of my 1969 Viscount ambassador & am currently completing welding works on the chassis - will post some pics of this soon - there are some others I've posted of the strip down recently.

the A frame certainly looks fine, but as you've found out, looks can be deceiving. The wiring in my viscount is routed in the same manner as yours, so i will be taking a good look at the frame whilst I have the chance.

Thx for the info & look forward to maybe some pics soon....

Rgds,
Thomas.