new frame

[Goatman]

Stupid Question Country,
Which is "better" for stiffening the frame rails 3" angle iron or square tubing with one side cut out? Also, when plug welding at what intervels do you weld (how far apart?)
If using angle iron do you weld the verticle plane AND the bottom surface or run a bead along the bottom seam to seal the bottom side?
Also, if using a TNT belly pan that bolts through the frame rails, guess that would also involve hole sawing through the frame?
If using a Clayton system, would you run angle or tubing up to the cross member where it's welded then continue on to the front on the other side of cross member?

Structure, rather than mass, is what really increases stiffness. For pure rigidity, adding boxed tubing without cutting out one side would give the best increase. However, the goal is also to reinforce the frame to keep it from getting smashed by rocks. So, the best overall way would be to add a strap to the underside of the frame for protection and add a cage for rigidity, and plate the frame around the steering box and track bar mount and reinforce the rear spring hanger for strength.

On mine, I added the cage, reinforced all those points mentioned, and added boxed tubing along the side of the frame between the control arm mounts and the front spring hangers. It's very rigid.

 

[HillbillyXJ]

Goatmeister, Sir,
By saying strap do you mean flat stock and would that be 2" or 3"? Also what size sqare tubing at the control arm monts and spring hangers?
Would'nt happen to have any visuals, would ya, would ya, would ya?

 

[jeepnuts311]

Ah man.... I loved that. "DENT THE HOOD! DENT THE HOOD!"

wow...thats....off camber.

i love it
-Tim