Making new frame what material?

[ISh]

My 1982 chev is going to haul a competition 4x4 vehicle so I need to lengthen the frame. I am going to switch the steering gearbox to a crossover steering box, and also going to run airbags and a four link suspension. I am thinking of using mild steel rectangular tubing 2"x8"x. 180. The frame will be 25' long and the wheel base of my crew cab dually will be stretched 2. 5'. Is mild steel going to be strong enough or should I use something else. I like mild steel cause I can weld to it without worrying about it. Any help would be appreciated.

 

[ISh]

Anyone know of anybody to take to about this?



I am thinking acsm 5000 class c 2"x8"x. 180 wall tubing.

 

[SRadke]

If you want to use mild steel I'd use at least . 25" to be on the safe side My suggestion is to use A-514 (AKA T1) plate and have a someone with a press break bend it into the same channel as the frame you are welding it to.



-Scott

 

[ISh]

The problem with T1 is that if you weld to it, it will change the metal enough that it will crack. This is what I have heard. Also trying to bend a chunk of steel 25' long could be tough.

 

[SRadke]

A-514 (T1) can easily be welded using a low hydrogen rod such as E7018. It is also commonly welded with a dual shield wire in mig applications. If you take the nescessary precautions it is not a problem. Your local welding supply shop can help you with the details. We have stretched several tandem truck frames here at our shop this way with great results. This is on farm trucks with hiosts that take some abuse.



-Scott