bent aluminum cross member - can it be fixed?

[andrew15]

I have a spare aluminum crossmember that is a bit bent - Is it possible to straighten this piece or is it destined for the junk pile in the corner?

Thanks,
Andrew M

[Grady Clay]

Andrew,

That is a cast part. If you attempt to straighten it there probably be a weak spot subject to failure or corrosion. Polish it, relegate that to a wall trophy, and fine a straight one.

Is anything else damaged?

Best,
Grady

[Por_sha911]

I agree with Grady. Bent parts will have less strenght and be a failure waiting to happen. The only thing I could think of to save replacing it would be to somehow brace the bent area (weld or bolt on). Grady?

[andrew15]

Thanks Guys - thats kind of what I thought. I've already put a straight / undamaged one on the car, so I was thinking of keeping this as a spare. Looks like it will be tossed out so it doesn't get on a car again and potentially cause problems..

AM

[beamonk]

Mine has a slight bend but is still working fine, I do keep an eye on it though

[Bill Verburg]

aluminum does not like to be bent