- Straightening frame horns requires expertise to be done safely.Antique Truck image by jodi mcgee from Fotolia.com
Frame horns are the part of a vehicle that the bumper attaches to on many vehicles. Frame horns can become bent or out of line in car wrecks and when improperly towed. Straightening frame horns should be left to the experts, as it can be a dangerous procedure and requires expensive equipment. Most auto body or collision repair shops can straighten frames easily and quickly. - Hydrolic frame straighteners are extremely costly and require sufficient training and know-how to be used safely. Before investing in expensive equipment, educate yourself by learning from an auto shop willing to teach you, or check out your local community college mechanics classes to see whether frame straightening is covered.
- Careful inspection of all equipment before each use is imperative to safety. Teeth on clamps can become worn down, straps worn thin and chains weakened. Clean clamps to a wire brush to remove any corrosion. Check the integrity of the frame before pulling. Rusted parts can break free, causing potential harm to the individual doing the work.
- After you have inspected equipment, take your time attaching chains and clamps. Be sure you are clamping to the correct part of the frame, wrap the chain more than once but without twisting it, and always keep your vehicle safely in place either on its wheels with the emergency brake engaged or bolted to safety stands.
- Never stand behind the vehicle when the hydrolic straightener is engaged. In the case that something breaks in the process, flying chains and other metal parts can have dire consequence. Always wear safety goggles for added protection.
Ahead of Time
Inspect Equipment
Set Up Carefully
Pulling Safely
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