Triumphrat

GrandPaulZ · 02-07-2012, 10:15 AM

I couldn't see from your first photo that the frame is indeed chopped.

I'm more in the "it's trashed" crowd on this one. Oily frames are relatively inxpensive. only value (limited) would be in repairing your frame IF it is a numbers-matching deal and that would mean anything at all to you. In Texas, it's easy enough to get a rebuilt title with proper paperwork on purchase of the engine and replacement frame.

You've spotted the right area for the swingarm support welding, google "Big D motorcycle" and i believe you can see some of thier racing frame mods that you want to do whether it's this frame or another.

GrandPaulZ · 02-09-2012, 09:53 AM

Looking back at the pix again, it looks like the swingarm area has already been re-welded also. I'd probably want to check those welds pretty close...

jpj441 · 02-09-2012, 09:06 PM

Thanks Paul! I appreciate your time and expertise!
John

jpj441 · 02-11-2012, 11:38 AM

Yesterday I pulled the engine and sandblasted the front end of the frame to see what mods were hidden under the paint. It didn’t look very good. The down tubes had about a three inch piece poorly scabbed into each of them and the steering head side brackets had also been modified. The mod at the steering head is what countered the bend mod on the spine. As of now, I’m not sure what the next plan of action will be for this frame.

While traveling through Reno, NV, I again stopped by a great Triumph shop, Ace Cycle, to check if he had acquired any parts for either of my machines. In the shop, Nickolas, the owner, was just getting ready to strip down a 1971 OIF to build it into a chopper for a client. What luck, better than in the Reno Casinos. I scored on many of the big parts I needed: front fender, rear fender with tail light, number plate brackets and grab rail, speedometer and tach with both mounting brackets, right foot rest, headlamp (with lens) and brackets, and handlebars all at a very fair “swap meet” price. At this point in time, I am just short of a petrol tank, seat, and chainguard to finish off the big pieces.

DAVE M · 02-13-2012, 05:03 AM

I don't know what the general feeling is on re-stamping a different frame but I'd be tempted to source another frame and transfer the original number to it. Then destroy the original.

Triumph used to seel unstamped frames for this reason. Someone I know built an unstamped bike after the factory shut

jpj441 · 02-19-2012, 12:56 AM

A question for the experts.
While working up my parts list, I pulled off the rear brake anchor plate to see if I would need to replace the rear brake shoes. The shoes and brake drum were covered with grease, hence new shoes. During the inspection, I could not see any type of seal between the bearing and the brake shoe area. The only grease retainers I could see was the felt ring on the speedometer drive gearbox and the R.H. grease retainer on the opposite side of the hub. I checked the parts manual and workshop manual and did not see any type of grease retainer on the brake drum side of the hub.

The portion of the brake anchor plate that inserts into the locking ring does not appear to be an adequate seal to prevent the intrusion of grease into the brake drum. Possibly the PO over greased or too light weight of grease for a wheel bearing? Some guidance would be appreciated.
Thanks, John

Mr.Pete · 02-19-2012, 02:36 AM

Boil the brake shoes in soapy water to remove any oil/grease. Fit rubber sealed wheel bearings with C3 internal clearance.

jpj441 · 02-19-2012, 04:05 PM

Thank you Mr. Pete! The issue resolved and saved a few bucks all in two short sentences! That is very much appreciated!
John

jpj441 · 02-24-2012, 12:40 AM

Throughout this past year, after first joining this elite group in February of 2011, while reading the various threads of the "Classic and Vintage" forum, it was quite apparent there are many knowledgeable individuals on this site from various regions of the globe generously willing to assist others.

After posting the pictures of my "modified" chopped and dented frame, and contemplating how to repair it with the suggestions of Mr. Pete and Mark61120, another one of the fine Gents from this site sent me a PM saying that he may be of some assistance for my repair problem. He had a straight OIF that needed a couple of minor welding repairs and with his frame and parts from my bent frame, I should be able to make one good useable frame for my bike. To top it off, his offer included, if I would pay for the shipping, he would send it my way, no charge for the frame! I can't thank him enough for his generous act!

Thank you Kevin (kjflick)! Your noble offer is very much appreciated! I hope to pass on your kindness to another member of this great group.

John

mark61120 · 02-24-2012, 03:29 AM

I like a story with a happy ending!