Body Welding Question(s)

I was a mechanic in a former life, I have done these jobs. I say Cut the 2 weld and replace it with a new piece of channel. A bracket like the weld the crack and in time it will crack right beside the weld. Cosmetically it will keep the dot from knit picking. And yes I went and got certified for welding at our shop to do critical welds.

 

You could groove it out and weld it in. I would consider it to be a acceptable repair as long as the box is secured and not loose. Long term the channel will likely re-crack on the edge of the weld.

A better repair would be to replace the piece of channel with new and would likely not cost that much more to an experienced fabricator.

 

Cost more to weld. Replace with a piece of C channel. And call it a day.

 

DOT checking for welds on the frame and wether or not if they are in accordance witch fmcsa???? Dam some of you guys travel where cops do some knit picking.
i have never have a cop go as far as checking brakes and weight. Never had one do an air brake test for leak down or check things like steering wheel play. Let alone check his welders chart for weld conformity on the frame. But hey, i have always been a local hauler.
Its always the usual
Checking lights and turn signals
fire extinguisher
fuel sticker
dot numbers
brake adjustments
weight

 

Heck man, they have reverse dynos here to check your brakes with, if everything is up to spec and adjusted right, they can still nail you on the dyno.
Remember it is all about safety. lol

 

That's just a guide channel...... New piece and revolt.

 

You can replace that cheaper than you can have a weld shop repair it... Cost of channel will be like $10 or less... Cost to have weld shop repair will be at least $60... If not $120