The skidplate section of my subframe is somewhat caved in from a history of bottoming out or jacking up; also the channel which ties the two crossmembers up front is beat up as well. Is it worth doctoring these up beyond basic straightening, since they are for the most part hidden? I would like to end up with something nicer than just a "driver" but wonder if it is worth the time involved. Also (if I do it at all...), should I separate the sections with a cutoff tool and deal with them on a bench, or use a stud puller? Pretty heavy gauge stuff. The subframe is already off and stripped for the most part.

The guys at www.restoreityourself.com (http://www.restoreityourself.com) publish .pdf booklets describing different repair methods they use for restoring cars and one of them is titled 'frame saddle repair'. If you've got a spot weld cutter, cutoff wheel, welder, and hammer & dolly, this 9-page booklet with photos tells you one way of repairing it.

The booklets are posted on their website for free downloading, but you have to catch them each week as they change. I've got the .pdf file, if you'd like a copy of it I can email it to you. It's 1.7 mb is size, if that's of any concern.

John

I used the spreader attachment on my Porta-Power.Slid it in the frame,opened the jaws and worked the metal from the outside.Slid the attatchment back a little each time and kept going till it was straight. Came out mint. Woops, i see you said saddle,i repaired the rail section that was squashed.

69hugger..you have mail! I just repaired mine, I would post them for everyone if I could figure out how to add a photo to this repley!

Here are the pictures Maurice was talking about.

http://www.funkconsulting.com/67camaro/frame