Hot Dip Galvanizing 4Runner frame

[northernT4R]

Hi - has anyone hot dip galvanized their complete 3rd gen frame?

Seems like a number of people who live in my area have completed frame-off restorations of their trucks (Land Rover, GMC, Ford) with amazing results: virtually no more corrosion (even within the beam channels) from our heavily salted winter roads!

Was wondering if the same thing could be done with a 3rd gen frame. Cost? Could the heat from the dipping process cause warping?

Thanks!

 

[PitbullRescuer]

Cost I would think is outrageous. The labor involved in stripping every last nut and bolt off the frame to do this would be insane. Now, if you were already doing a frame swap, I think this would be a great idea.

 

[MStudt]

You should be able to get the frame coated for about $600-$800. The expensive part is going to be the labor to strip everything down. I had my old jeep frame dipped and it cost me $450. Took me about a week to strip everything down. But those older jeeps are super easy to strip down.

 

[BlackWorksInc]

I would recommend you do all you welding mods PRIOR to getting it galvanized, welding galvanized steel is noxious and horrid. But I bet its expensive...

 

[T4R2014]

I would recommend you do all you welding mods PRIOR to getting it galvanized, welding galvanized steel is noxious and horrid. But I bet its expensive...

That would also make it the perfect time to add sliders.

 

[IBallEngineer]

Cost I would think is outrageous. The labor involved in stripping every last nut and bolt off the frame to do this would be insane. Now, if you were already doing a frame swap, I think this would be a great idea.

I've had plenty of frames powder coated and the same parts removal is required. If you don't know what you are doing, don't try it. As for the durability, I doubt it is significantly better than powder, but I could be wrong. I've seen galvanized boat trailers that are rusty, and this is in CA. Zinc wears off, and is affected by sun (UV) as well. But chain link fence holds up pretty good, so I'm sure the quality of the application makes a difference.

Do it and then get back to us in 15 yrs!

:couch2:

 

[northernT4R]

Looking into getting some prices from local galvanizing shops. Quick over-the-phone estimates range from $800 to $2000! Not sure why there's such variation...will post more info once I've received some clarification.

I appreciate all the feedback - thanks!