Rusted frame....can it be fixed?

Question

My husband has a Dodge Dakota 4x4 truck {sorry I don't know the year ....maybe '98}. There are about two or three holes in the frame where it has rusted through. Is this something that can be fixed so that it will pass inspection or should we just say goodbye and sell it for the motor and parts?

Answer 1

Nope. The frame is weakened if it's rusted that bad. Even if you fixed the worst spots you'd still risk that thing breaking in half some day.

Answer 2

I've been in autobody for 35 years now.It would really depend upon where the rust is located.If it's near an area that is stressed by the motion of the suspension,then it could spell trouble sometime.But if it's basically along the side rails then it could be cosmetically repaired to pass inspection.Once something begins to rust that bad,nothing will stop it.The real question is how safe is it going to be in a serious situation.

Answer 3

do no longer use Rustoleam that turns the rust tricky and could do extra harm, get Navel Jelly and run it down the barrel and enable set for 2 to 3 days. Then run the appropriate 30 cal wirer brush down the barrel, wash any final Navel Jelly out with cleansing soap and warm water, then run a patch with Remington Gun Oil down the barrel countless situations. this might eliminate all the high quality rust and give up any new rust from forming. Re-oil the barrel two times a twelve months and shop it in a dry place removed from the youngsters and ammo. The final section is for protection!

Answer 4

This is a toughy. You will need to remove the rust and use a welder to repair the frame. The trouble is that once rust starts, it doesn't stop and you will end up with an unsafe truck. Welding something where it's meant to be is one thing, but when it wasn't meant to be in the first place is another. Be careful .

Answer 5

You could grind out the rust and get a sheet metal plate and scab it onto the frame to strengthen it.