Not that I can afford to do either at this point... Just trying to come up with a plan for when the finances actually allow it. Truck is a '49 3100. I've been told the frame can be fixed, but some of the searching I've done indicates that a replacement frame in decent shape can actually be a good bit cheaper than the fix. Just a matter of finding it! And of course a bare frame would be very easy to strip down and seal up... Not looking to do an S-10 conversion. Would really like to stay with an A.D. frame...
That's only going to take a few hours to fix. Getting a new frame under it is going to take weeks & could be 20 years or more if this project goes the way of the "might as well & forever" projects. If it were mine I'd fix it and drive it. If it were mine and I wanted it perfect, I'd still fix it and drive it until I got a second chassis completely refurbished and ready to go as a roller. Then do the swap.
If you really didnt want to fix that frame, I'd be willing to bet that a stock frame would be easy to find with all the s10 frame swapping goin on. Throw a wanted add on Craigslist. That being said, easy fix.
Given the age of the frame you may not be able to find one a whole lot better, at least in Connecticut. I don't think it would be worth it to go to Colorado or Arizona for one.
That's a very common area for those trucks to rust. Around here 1/2 frames are pretty hard to find, most of the s10 conversion start out with 3/4 ton and bigger trucks. The last couple of usable frames I found here where between $500- $800.
A frame is not the best place to be honing your welding penetration skills. Yes it is repairable but unless you are proficient at welding, have someone help you learn this part. Don't just hire someone, make a deal where they help and teach.
I'd fix it, but i'd get it down to bare frame and take the time to do it right. I've fixed a lot of rusted shit and what you see initially may not be the tip of the iceburg but you can bet there is more. You won't regret 'bitting the bullet' once you get it down to just a frame and have it media blasted.
I'd say it is time to get a welder and learn how to use it. doesn't look too bad to me from where i am sitting.
The big question, I think, it what is the condition of the rest of the frame? I my experience with the sheetmetal of my F-3 is any indication, what is immediately visible is only the tip of the iceberg. Not trying to scare you, but I think you want the hole picture prior to taking any $ action. If thats the only problem area, take it to pro welder and have him fix it. Otherwise it might be better to finding another one in better condition.
Frame is very fixable. If you're project is an old rusty truck, you need to buy a mig and learn to use it, if not, you'll go broke paying someone
Don't know how good these are,but check it out http://www.speedwaymotors.com/1947-54-Chevy-Pickup-Truck-Frame-Rails,63702.html
Thanks for all the feedback, guys! Much appreciated. I've never welded, but pretty sure I can get someone who actually knows what they're doing to do a fix for me. The rest of the frame looks good, although I'm wondering if I should just go ahead and remove the rest of the body (the bed is already off the truck) so we can either fix this frame the right way or be ready to go with a replacement. Need to get at the underside of the front fenders and cab for cleanup anyway... @ Barsteel: Chris, I'm in New Milford... Not far!
Fix it. You have to learn somewhere. Welding is not rocket-surgery. It can't be, somebody pays ME to do it, most every day. Plenty of guys in CT that can help, I know, I used to be one, and they taught me how to weld.
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