checking chassis before welding

[Shorty]

This might be a bit of a stupid question but... Is there any way to ensure that all tubes are correct and there is no distortion before fully welding.
Obviously I have been checking all dimensions and angles against the book but would just like to be sure as I'm not too far from being ready to weld.

[flyerncle]

I tied mine to a car body jig to weld it and it still distorted very slightly.

Check your measurements and placement of the components and only when you are 100% sure weld it.

Once welded there is a lot of stress and tension on all parts and if you have to remake it guaranteed it will go twang when you cut into it.

[alga]

Originally Posted by Shorty

This might be a bit of a stupid question but... Is there any way to ensure that all tubes are correct and there is no distortion before fully welding.
Obviously I have been checking all dimensions and angles against the book but would just like to be sure as I'm not too far from being ready to weld.

You could check that the various diagonals match. But what if they don't? Would you scrap the chassis and start a new one? Whack it with a large hammer?

[spud69]

Originally Posted by flyerncle

I tied mine to a car body jig to weld it and it still distorted very slightly.

Check your measurements and placement of the components and only when you are 100% sure weld it.

Once welded there is a lot of stress and tension on all parts and if you have to remake it guaranteed it will go twang when you cut into it.

If your base table is substantial try using 3 lengths of 25mm x 25mm tube, lay them across the base rails front middle and back and screw them down to your table. This will keep your chassis flat while you go through the standard welding procedure.

AndyH

[Shorty]

Great info thanks.
Yes talon, its basically all just tacked but I did weld up all the base tube to try keep a good flat base.
I should be able to work through your guide to double check everything.
Looking forward to part 2.

Good idea of cutting the holes out to aid welding.