Auto Body Repair: Frame Straightening

Not everyone has the garage, tools and know-how to take a bad wreck and turn it into a gem. However the specialty tools that were once only affordable by large companies are now making their way into homeowner garages and shops. You can now pick up a frame straightener used for between $2000-$8000 depending on the make, model and options. Now I'm not saying this is for everyone but if you were every thinking of getting one it will pay for itself in a few jobs for sure.

First off, get the proper training. If you think you can just throw one of these in your garage and start straightening you're in for a mighty surprise and more damage then good. Check your local trade school or community college for classes or go chat with your local collision center mechanics. They love to talk about their tools ;o) The following is a pretty neat video that will give you a rough description and idea of frame straightening a wrecked car.

I am not affiliated with the product in this video, but found it to be helpful in researching affordable frame straighteners. Nice little unit for the home shop.

This next video is a training video, part 1, of the BlackJack Frame Straightening machine. This is the "cats meow" of the frame straightening units. If there's interest I'll post all the parts with comments and tips, or check out all 5 training videos from YouTube.com

I think I'll follow up this on this post as a mini series for auto body and salvaged car rebuild tips and techniques I've found helpful while doing research on the net. In the meant time I hope you stay tuned and while your waiting for the next post check out our store for the best deals on repairable cars

Tools of the Trade