Expert: william [bill] tuma - 8/18/2009

Question
Can you offer some suggestion as to proper method of repairing  rust damage at rear subframe near front shackle of rear leaf spring.  I want to make a local repair if possible, as the rest of the frame sections seem solid.  Are patch pieces available?

Answer
Tmirkov. wow thats a tough one . If you can find a 'junk-downer' car you may be able to cut out the section that you need[get a big piece you will probably  need extra metal]. use a sawzall with a long bi-metal fine tooth blade cut through rocker panel,floor ,rail... . with part out clean off dirt,undercoating.paint. Locate spot welds 5/16"-3/8" use sandpaper to locate them. Measure and mark  cut  lines.Now drill out spot welds on your cars repair area look for solid metal . you are going to take it apart  piece by piece  and rebuild piece by piece welding in pieces as you progress. Not a job  for a beginner ,much overhead welding[M I G ] HTH Bill