CJM
02-01-2010, 02:10 PM
Long story short, I totally frigged up my steering stem bracket on my ATV. I was trying to remove a bearing and it would not budge due to the fact I didnt see a snap ring holding it (very dirty inside), I created a horrible lip inside of the hole where the bearing goes and basically its not easily fixable. I obtained a piece of a frame for the part and managed to dissect it today doing a pretty decent job.
I probably need to fill in the one part and I honestly think Ill reinforce it as much as I can.
Doesnt seem to be much margin for error since it must be on there good. The entire steering column bolts to it and then the tie rods bolt to it and if its off the alignment will be off as well, which I can correct possibly but I rather it be on the money.
My Q is:
1. Im a decent welder, however should this kinda of thing be welded by a professional b/c its a critical part of the frame, must be centered correctly and must be welded very good. As you can see the welds are quite thick and robust as well.
See pics, tell me what you think.
2. You think I should cut the other piece off short, not trying to save it and simply grind down everything else as best as possible. I am looking to keep the frame tubes intact as much as possible.
http://i46.tinypic.com/2a9el5g.jpg
http://i49.tinypic.com/8vomip.jpg
http://i49.tinypic.com/2eulcfr.jpg
What I cut off the other frame, I think I did an ok job-it wasnt easy!
Area to fill
http://i46.tinypic.com/9rm5xe.jpg
I probably need to fill in the one part and I honestly think Ill reinforce it as much as I can.
Doesnt seem to be much margin for error since it must be on there good. The entire steering column bolts to it and then the tie rods bolt to it and if its off the alignment will be off as well, which I can correct possibly but I rather it be on the money.
My Q is:
1. Im a decent welder, however should this kinda of thing be welded by a professional b/c its a critical part of the frame, must be centered correctly and must be welded very good. As you can see the welds are quite thick and robust as well.
See pics, tell me what you think.
2. You think I should cut the other piece off short, not trying to save it and simply grind down everything else as best as possible. I am looking to keep the frame tubes intact as much as possible.
http://i46.tinypic.com/2a9el5g.jpg
http://i49.tinypic.com/8vomip.jpg
http://i49.tinypic.com/2eulcfr.jpg
What I cut off the other frame, I think I did an ok job-it wasnt easy!
Area to fill
http://i46.tinypic.com/9rm5xe.jpg