Frame modifications and state inspections

[DaveB]

I was looking at the state inspection manual to see if i am going to run into any problems with my latest project and found this:

I. FRAME
1. Check the frame, repairs must meet OEM Specifications.
a. REJECT when:
1) Has any broken or cracked frame component.
2) Frame is rusted through.
3) Frame has been cut, or portions of the frame have been removed, or bent affecting the strength or integrity of the frame.

I know that plenty of our rig's frames have been lengthened or have had modifications done to them. My latest project has the frame widened and angled to match a TJ frame and the frame has been boxed in the rear. Does this come down to whether they think the changes affect the strength or are any cuts or bends grounds for rejection ?

 

[rollover]

Dave,

I think your fine since you added strength above the OME frame spec's. If you add or modify the frame it has to be stronger than an OME. You boxed it, that alone is stronger than factory ever was.

 

[jdub]

I had a cj5 that had the front end cut and new tubing added, It was obvious but stronger, it never came up in 3 years of inspections.

 

[Shawn]

If you find a inspector that actually can tell that you have modified the rigs frame I will be impressed. Most look under the rig for 2 seconds to see if there is a cat.

 

[Crankylove]

If it dosen't look like a drunk monkey did it, you should be fine. Nice, clean welds, and some spray paint..........and its likely no one will ever notice, let alone question it for inspection.

 

[DaveB]

If it dosen't look like a drunk monkey did it, you should be fine. Nice, clean welds, and some spray paint..........and its likely no one will ever notice, let alone question it for inspection.

That is my plan, it actually looks quite clean and hopefully won't draw any unwanted attention.

 

[4x4_Welder]

Generally, as long as splices are plated you'll be fine. If you just butt the two pieces of frame together and weld, it'll get kicked. Many RV manufacturers stretch E350 frames to put a 26'+ body on them, and they do it by plating the splice areas.
I think all they really look for is rust holes anyways.

 

[STAG]

Yeah technically it is somewhat "to the inspectors disgression" so just make sure you either get a dumb inspector who won't notice, or a smart one and will know that its strong enough. if you get an inspector who is in the middle, (notices the mod, and thinks he is smarter than he really is) that's when you get rejected.