Minion Missile - 1973 Colombian Patrol Project

[rdarnell]

i agree and pieces of the frame are easier to handle than the whole frame.

[moore_rb]

I agree, too. patch the one that has the vehicle's original numbers stamped on it.

[mad4hws]

Hi guys & gals;

So, I thinking about replacing the rear bumper. I'm not sure if it is stock or not. It is channel stock that is 3 inches in depth and 3.5 inches in height. It is welded to the frame. It needs to come out because it has a good deal of rust and since I'm going to deal with the rest of the rust on the back-end, I really should take care of this too. As I think about a replacement, I think I would like something that is removable - so thinking about fabricating some inserts for the frame rails that can be welded to the bumper and bolted to the frame. Has anyone else tried something like this? Also, I think I want something that is a little bit taller - maybe 5" or even 6". Appreciate everyone's thoughts.

Don.

[RiverPatrol]

The Patrol doesn't really have a rear 'bumper' per se. Most have the bumperettes on each side, roughly where your tail lights are. What you are referring to as the bumper is actually part of the frame, the fourth rail in the ladder frame. It can be replaced, much like folks have replaced the crossmember under the transmission. I would recommend against making it removable though, it's important to the integrity of the frame.

[Esteban]

I agree with RiverPatrol. That member is key to the structure.

I think that that member has a boxed construction, and duplicating it might be a very time consuming effort. I would source a steel channel with the closest geometry, and increase the thickness from what it is right now, and leave the channel open. That way you'll be able to paint it thoroughly for years to come.

While typing this I see that it might be difficult to source the steel channel, and maybe go to a rectangular tubing. However the closest one on a fast search is 120mm x 80mm x 5mm thick. (4.72" x 3.1" x 0.19") a little over 3/16" in thickness.

At the following place they have 4" x 3" x 3/16" rectangular tubing.

https://www.myalro.com/SmartGrid.aspx?S ... 1594771260

I'm sure a place that manufactures custom steel structural members will be able to get you something close.

[RiverPatrol]

...or one could be cut from another frame...

[mad4hws]

Thanks Esteban.

I know a very capable metal fabricator. I'm going to give him a call tomorrow. Would pretty easy to cut out a section for him to replicate and then just weld it into place. when I cut it out, i'll need to support the frame - keep it from moving around until the new member is in.

[Esteban]

Good to know about the fabricator!

You can always weld temporarily an steel angle prior to removing the rear cross member.

[moore_rb]

You can always weld temporarily an steel angle prior to removing the rear cross member.

[mad4hws]

Hi guys,
so, working on this slowly. started pulling back the paint and surprise surprise found some more quality welding:


This craftsmanship was covered in a healthy layer of bondo. Wonder what other surprises this baby has in store for me?

Does anyone know what gauge steel the body is? I'm thinking 16 gauge, but maybe 18. The couple of panels in the back don't appear to be complex. Flat with 90 degree bends. I think I might be able to handle them with a little practice.