New Frame Tubes, 16H

Hi David.

Brazing is fairly straightforward if you know what you are doing. But unbrazing is altogether a bigger problem. In my experience, if you heat the lug to brazing temperarure the braze melts, but it is sticky stuff and you cannot pull the tube out of the lug.

If you are removing the tube from both sides of the lug, saw it off near the lug and then either put the lug in the lathe and turn the tube out, or using a hacksaw cut through the tube lengthways at eighth inch intervals and then chisel out the strips of tube. 

If you are not retubing completely, but repairing a break or rusty bit, it is easier to cut a section of tube out. Get a replacement bit the same length and the assemble with two solid bits of steel bar (preferably drilling a decent hole through). You now cannot see to braze, so drill some holes in the tube allowing the well fluxed bar to receive the braze.

I hope that helps.........Doug

Original prewar style frames were “nailed” before brazing to align for dimension.  Try to locate the nail in the lug and remove it or you will be pulling in vain.

Jon

The late thirties and WD frames only have straight tubes.

Hi David,

   Hopefully your frame is still in one piece. Firstly, check your frame is straight and not been in an accident, then take lots of photos from all angles. Next measure every tube, lug and bracket so you can make some detailed drawings showing measurements and angles. Finally make a full jig using the original frame and a solid base board and angle-iron or perhaps Dexion etc. Make sure it is solid enough so it doesn't move during assembly and the pick-up points are correct and relevant to each other.

   After you have done all that, you can happily chop it up !

P.S. If you don't have the original registration, It might be easier to source another frame.