Dodge Dakota Sport 2001 Service Manual page 1318

AN
FRAME (Continued)
1 - FUEL TANK CROSSMEMBER
2 - TRAILER HITCH
A straightening repair process should be limited to
frame members that are not severely damaged. The
replacement bolts, nuts and rivets that are used to
join the frame members should conform to the same
specifications as the original bolts, nuts and rivets.
FRAME REPAIRS
DRILLING HOLES
Do not drill holes in frame side rail top and bottom
flanges, metal fatigue can result causing frame fail-
ure. Holes drilled in the side of the frame rail must
be at least 38 mm (1.5 in.) from the top and bottom
flanges.
Additional drill holes should be located away from
existing holes.
Fig. 4 4X4 Frame
3 - FRAME
WELDING
Use MIG, TIG or arc welding equipment to repair
welded frame components.
Frame components that have been damaged should
be inspected for cracks before returning the vehicle
to use. If cracks are found in accessible frame com-
ponents perform the following procedures.
(1) Drill a hole at each end of the crack with a 3
mm (O.125 in.) diameter drill bit.
(2) Using a suitable die grinder with 3 inch cut off
wheel, V-groove the crack to allow 100% weld pene-
tration.
(3) Weld the crack.
(4) If necessary when a side rail is repaired, grind
the weld smooth and install a reinforcement channel
(Fig. 8) over the repaired area.
FRAME & BUMPERS 13 - 5