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Replacing Rear Crossmember

Discussion in 'Intermediate CJ-5/6/7/8' started by HarvestGold, Nov 29, 2021.

  1. HarvestGold

    HarvestGold New Member

    I've been working on the frame of my '74 CJ-5, getting it ready for paint, and I bought a replacement rear crossmember (Omix-Ada part 12027.01) to replace the rusted-out original.

    The new crossmember appears to be about 1/8" too narrow on the inside to fit over the end of the frame. Not sure how to proceed. I am considering heating the frame with a torch to narrow it slightly on the end, but I don't really want to change the factory dimensions.
     
    HarvestGold, Nov 29, 2021
    #1
  2. Buildflycrash

    Buildflycrash More or Less in Line. 2024 Sponsor 2022 Sponsor

    I'm working on mine and had the same problem. I spread the crossmember with my BFH. It didn't take much. a little on top a little on bottom. Mine isnt a "restoration" so other modifications as well. the crossmember will go between these parts and the new bumper welded to the outside parts. All will be removable with 1" grade 8 bolts.

    [​IMG]
     
    Buildflycrash, Nov 29, 2021
    #2
  3. dnb71R2

    dnb71R2 SuperDave 2023 Sponsor

    In my opinion, if you are within 1/8" of factory dimensions, you are GOOD TO GO. Squeeze it together, heat it or use the BFH to adjust 'whatever'!
    I don't think the factory maintained close tolerances during the manufacture of these Jeeps!
     
    dnb71R2, Nov 29, 2021
    #3
  4. sterlclan

    sterlclan Member 2024 Sponsor 2022 Sponsor

    the factory wasnt that close + or- 1/2 in the old frame books...
     
    sterlclan, Nov 29, 2021
    #4
  5. timgr

    timgr We stand on the shoulders of giants. 2022 Sponsor

    This sounds to me like the Omix part is too narrow compared to the original. Quality of the Omix parts seems to be uniformly ... disappointing. I will measure my cross member width in the morning, and you can compare. This is not a dimension I would expect to vary a lot from the factory.

    Classic Enterprises sells this part, and I'd bet their part will fit. https://www.classicent.com/products/jeep-crossmember-rear-frame-1951-1975
     
    timgr, Nov 29, 2021
    #5
  6. Chilly

    Chilly Active Member

    Had an Omix. Didn't use it.

    Bought from Classic. Installed it.

    Classic beats Omix.
     
    Chilly, Nov 29, 2021
    #6
    dnb71R2 and wheelie like this.
  7. HarvestGold

    HarvestGold New Member

    I think you're right. I ended up using the BF vise to widen the rear crossmember.
     
    HarvestGold, Nov 30, 2021
    #7
  8. HarvestGold

    HarvestGold New Member

    I certainly wish I had seen that part earlier haha. I like that you can even get it with the stiffener.
     
    HarvestGold, Nov 30, 2021
    #8
  9. Lockman

    Lockman OK.....Now I Get It . 2024 Sponsor 2023 Sponsor 2022 Sponsor

    No worries. you don't need heat . If you don't' have a Porta Power, wrap a come along cable around each side . That'll pull it into place
     
    Lockman, Nov 30, 2021
    #9
    dnb71R2 likes this.
  10. rusty72cj5

    rusty72cj5 Member

    Got mine from Classic as well. No problems at all. Fit perfectly on my ‘72.
     
    rusty72cj5, Dec 6, 2021
    #10