[bledsoe3]

Originally Posted by AlbieVas

WOW really did not think it was a big process. I could not find Danny's number but called around other shops. they pretty much said the same thing. I've been looking on ebay and craigslist my only problem is its a high end racing bike. I do not want to spend another 4k on a bike but looks like that might be my only option...

If it's a $4K bike, I would have it repaired. It can't cost anywhere near that much to have it welded.

[AlbieVas]

Originally Posted by bledsoe3

If it's a $4K bike, I would have it repaired. It can't cost anywhere near that much to have it welded.

Sad part is the Warranty on that Racing Frame is 3 years and I'm on year 3 1/2. I'm trying to snag a Frame on EBAY now... DOes anyone know the full Process of having something welded? I am wondering if i should take all of my components off...

[MediocreButArrogant]

You probably should ask in a dedicated bike forum - it should be clear that none of us is really that knowledgeable about repairing an aluminum bike frame. I've got a Klein Mantra and a Specialized Allez, and used to have a Trek 7000, all of which have aluminum frames, but I have zero experience with repairing the frames.

[bledsoe3]

Olecapt has some knowledge of welding since he knew to stop drill the crack. Did the shops you called really say it was not able to be welded or was cost prohibitive? I would call a bike shop, although I'm sure they would want to sell you a new one.

[AlbieVas]

The bike shops were no help. Gilberts Precision Machine seemed most eager to tackle this project. Ether they are really good or just needs the business. I am going to try to get it welded. Thanks Everyone

[aggrofish]

I'm no bicycle expert but I can tell you I've had aluminum frames on motorcycles welded. I've had frames put in a *** and straightened, rotors beat on until they were straight. All you need is a good aluminum welder. Hell, take it to the right guy and they'll replace the whole downtube or whatever is cracked.

If I've gone 180mph on welded sportbike frames, you should be just fine.

[MediocreButArrogant]

The walls of the aluminum tubing used in bicycle frames are very, very thin. You can tell by tapping on it with your finger. There were Klein road bikes that could be dented by just leaning them against a tree. Even though the tubing is double-butted at the ends, welding still decreases the strength of the tubing enough that some post-welding treatment is needed to increase the strength of the tubing - either heat treatment or artificial aging.

Where is the crack anyway? BTW, now that I think about it, my aluminum Trek 7000 wasn't welded, it was actually "screwed and glued" (bonded with epoxy). There are a bunch of posts on bikeforums.net about repairing aluminum bike frames - some successful, some not.

[AlbieVas]

Medio, Its cracked on the swing arm. I will load a picture later.