Can anyone advise.

Just bought a 2001 315. Engine runs well, just needs some general servicing but upon closer inspection I discovered a crack on the ali frame, which really annoyed me because the seller told me there was no damage to the frame. I suppose it`s my own fault for not removing fender and tank for closer inspection. Anyway I have a contact who can TIG weld but I`m having a problem removing the expansion box from the frame. All bolts are removed and airbox is out, just seems so tight in there.

Any help is appreciated.

By the way, also having a problem opening the radiator cap. any ideas?

Thanks

Edited June 17, 201313 yr by snowball

drop the shock from frame and swing arm. They are a tight fit, even with the shock out I seem to remember having to twist it to get it past the carb and pull out towards the rear

I think I was also told once to remove everything electrical from the frame to avoid frying things when the welding is taking place, perhaps someone can confirm?

Thanks, managed to get the shock off and moved the carb to the side. Have warned the guy about the electrics so here's hoping he takes precautions. Since the exhaust is off I'll clean with parafin, I think that's correct.

thats a nasty crack you got there mate

Will post a pic of the fix. Just hope the electrics will be fine

I was also thinking the crack was particularly bad, I wonder if in addition to the weld a hole could be drilled and tapped through from the side and a support bolt inserted to assist the weld?

Here is the fix. The guy did a triple layer weld and it seems good. Removing the rear shock revealed bearings that hadn't seen grease in a while. Only slight play vertically, will have to replace in the future. Waiting for my trans oil elf 740 to arrive before starting but electrics seem good as when kicked over the plug is gives a good spark.