WELDING PRECAUTIONS PRIOR TO

[Tom Chace]

Hello everyone,

I have a broken frame and broken LF shock absorber.
Shock is no problem, I will be ordering a replacement.

The welding poses a few concerns.

What do I need to do prior to having a welder put the power to the frame?
The welding is at the fuel tank. With a small amount of asbestos or similar I think the fuel tank is safe.

I will ask the welder about the conditions prior to  starting any work.

Thank You

From the sunshine state

Pam & Tom

[Steven Hoffman]

Tom

May want to post year and model as it helps when answering questions.

I would disconnect the Engine and Transmission ECU's

97 Beavers had the shock mounted to the center of the frame rail.  This caused cracks in the frame.  The recommended repair procedure was the instillation of fish plates.  There was also a procedure to convert to a different shock mount location and I believe a four shock versus two shock setup.   

[Grant Ralston]

Tom
In addition to the disconnects, a good welder will bring his ground with him to the location of the weld and confirm he has a good solid ground by grinding to bare metal if necessary.  You don't want the welding current going thru any bearings or coach wiring in search for a trip back to the welding machine.
Grant

[Tom Chace]

Thank You Guys

I keep forgetting the make/model/year

OK will make sure og the ground - makes sense

I really appreciate all of the help!

[Neal E Weinmann]

The front page of the chassis electrical section in my coach manual has a distinct, bold section of welding precautions. Can post a photo of it if there isn't one in your manual or you can't find it online.