Subframe material - Can it be welded

[CdnR5T2]

I have a question on the type of steel that the V6 sport subframe
is constructed of. Is it Galvanized? Can it be welded without
any complications ?

Leo

 

[HaventgotaClio]

Me thinks it's galvanised, in which case don't breath those fumes.
Best approach would be strip entire subframe, weld, re-galvanise.
Next best, grind away area to be welded, weld, coat exposed steel area, but this would clearly show the repair.

 

[Kett]

Tannaman had his subframes galvanised as part of his Ph2 ‘perfectionism’ project. I would’ve therefore assumed that OEM is not galvanised.

 

[ed_harland]

It welds fine (mild steel), use a flap wheel or grinder to take off any galvanising around the weld.
I've just used a coat of etch primer and grey stonechip to protect it for now, may re-galvanise later when all mods are complete.

 

[rustedandrotten]

The subframes are galvanised OEM and I would keep them that way as they actually act as a sacrificial anode for the rest of the car! If you have to weld it, ensure you grind the zinc well back as previously stated due to when zinc gets heated it burns and the fumes when breathed in cause 'zinc flu', a particularly nasty thing that hits you the following day!! To repair, best thing to use is either Galvafroid paint in aerosol or brushable form, this is a very high zinc content paint that will reinstate the protection. You will need to very thoroughly prepare the surface and remove all slag, burnt material, rust etc and create an anchor pattern for the paint to grip on before applying, will get you a decent repair until you can re-galvanise in the future. Etch primer and stone chip are not a good answer!!

 

[ed_harland]

Etch primer and stone chip are not a good answer!!

They stop the surface rust and protect from moisture I wouldn't apply more zinc to mine until all fabrication is complete

 

[CdnR5T2]

Thank you to everyone for their input. I ground down the galvanized metal before
welding and cleaned it all off. Rust-oleum has a Cold Galvanizing compound that has
93% zinc added to it in a spray bomb. Worked like a charm. All good.

Leo

 

[ed_harland]

:approve: