Cracked BB lug, is something like this repairable?
04-23-09, 01:03 AM
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Cracked BB lug, is something like this repairable?
Found this nice vintage frame on CL however the lug on the bottom bracket is cracked. I thought it would make a nice SS/Fixie project however I'm concerned about it being able to be ridden safely. Can this be repaired?
04-23-09, 03:08 AM
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I would think it would require a lot of welding at a minimum even if it could be repaired -- I'd stay away from this frame.
04-23-09, 06:19 AM
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It's a brazed lugged frame and the crack is in the bottom bracket lug, by far the most complex lug and joint in the frame. It can't be welded to repair the crack since the heat would far exceed what the brazed joint would tolerate.
Yes, in theory, a frame builder could replace the lug but the cost would be prohibitive unless the frame has great historic or sentimental value. Also, add a repaint to the repair cost.
Yes, in theory, a frame builder could replace the lug but the cost would be prohibitive unless the frame has great historic or sentimental value. Also, add a repaint to the repair cost.
04-23-09, 06:56 AM
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It will only be a matter of time before you have no seat tube. Too cost prohibitive to fix that. I don't really think too many framebuilders would even try to tackle that project
04-23-09, 08:45 AM
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Yes, it can be repaired (I've done it on a few frames) but the question will be whether it is worth it. As mentioned, this is a complicated repair; since I do the labor it was worth it for me. Don't forget to factor in the cost of a paint job as well. Unless this is a rare or valuable frame it could well be more $$$ than it is worth.
04-23-09, 03:21 PM
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It can be repaired with a fillet-brazed joint. Not that tough, I've done quite a few. However, you're looking at $250-300 minimum, +paint.
04-23-09, 04:18 PM
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I forgot about that technique and, of course, it would work. However, as you noted, the cost would be very high for the overall repair.
04-23-09, 05:05 PM
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Unless that's a really nice vintage frame in good condition worth over $1k+, don't buy into a problem.
