2023 Week #3
This week we started strengthening the frames on the driver’s side of the bus. A little tricky around the driver’s seat since there are a lot of wires in that location and one weld drop could ruin a whole lot of electrical equipment. After noticing what grinding sparks had done to the glass of the front door, we took our time to ensure everything was properly covered.
After reinforcing all the frame
By end of the week all but four frames were completed. Basically, the point where we should have been one day after the roof raise.
Back four frames
These we had cut in the wrong place and thus the inserts did not fit. We ended up cutting the bottom part of the frame where they should have been cut in the first place. We then welded flat steel inside them to fit them back together followed by cutting the new insert to size and welding the strengthening plate on top.
Part of the challenge for fitting the back frames came from the wiring going to the air conditioning, lights and engine components. Extra care was used to protect all of the wires. Until now there has only been an insulation fire, a blanket fire and socks on fire. The last one was my own fault since I had forgotten to bring my safety shoes and was welding with Crocs on. There are a lot of holes in those but I did not want to drive all the way home to change shoes again, so I figured I’d just cover them with a rag. Don’t try that at home because it does not work…. Between insulation rash, fiberglass marks and burn marks, I am starting to look a little battered.
Meanwhile, we are slowly staring to think of a paint scheme, since once we fit the new skin on, we want to paint as soon as possible to prevent rust.
We have a little more welding to do before we are at that point though. More next week.