pennpaul

I was washing my road bike after yesterday's ride and found a crack near my rear dropout. I don't know how long it's been there but it's there. It seems to run nearly 3/4 of the way around!

It's an Al frame. I'm going to see if I can have it repaired down here (Central America) before we move back to the US. However, if that doesn't pan out, are there bike shops or welders in the Frederick, MD area that would be able to see if it's possible?

Thanks
Paul

Trakhak

You should probably ask the mods (click on the red exclamation point button at bottom left in your post) to move the post to the Framebuilders subforum. The Mid-Atlantic doesn't get many views, so you're likely to have better luck in Framebuilders.

Also, the people who visit that subforum can give you specific info about the wisdom of attempting to repair a cracked aluminum frame. From what I've read, it's very hard to do right, and there's a high likelihood that any repair won't last long.

pennpaul

I asked a similar but different question in framebuilders, too.

I've read a little bit on the topic, too, but don't know that I've seen any first person experience with it.

Assuming it's even possible, I'll be looking to have it done locally to Frederick (hence why I posted here).

Juan Foote

You are insanely incredible lucky that hasn't let go while riding.

I am not sure where you would be able to find a welder that was both competent enough to property repair this (if it can be done) as well as actually taking on such a small job cheaper than the easy aspect of simply replacing the frame with something whole and intact as built.

indyfabz

The Google is your friend. Only 50 miles away.

Bishop Bikes

Trakhak

Worth a shot, although I believe he has only ever worked with steel.

indyfabz

Oops. Missed the AL part. Sorry.

pennpaul

Framebuilders gave me an idea--try getting a warranty replacement. Duh!

I'll try this route with Fuji after I've moved back. The snag is that I bought the bike almost 20 years ago from Performance Bike. I'm not sure if that receipt got saved in our stored documents or if Performance will still have that information considering they went through a restructuring. Fingers crossed. If all else fails, it'll give me a chance to finally build that titanium bike I've been wanting.

Trakhak

If the warranty replacement doesn't happen, you can often find replacement frames for lowish prices, although differing dimensional standards for, e.g., forks, wheels, brakes, cranks, handlebar stems, etc., can mean that you'll have to buy some additional replacement parts.

Frames at Random Bike Parts

ericoseveins

Could try Martin's Machine and Sheet Metal in Beltsville. One man shop, super nice guy with a lot of experience including contract work with Goddard.

DonkeyShow

I'd go to summit point and ask around in the garages there. Lots of mad scientist types who would do it free/cheap. My pops in Monrovia could prob do it but we don't speak anymore.