I'm liking the 2x2 square tubing to give it a real solid base for you to work with!Well, it was bound to happen eventually. The Lower radiator support on my 2000 Frontier has finally given out. Weather permitting I'll be fabricating something this week and will post pictures. Yes, I know I could just buy the part from Nissan or buy the custom stainless one, but where's the fun in that? And besides, who wants to spend over $200 plus shipping on a three foot piece of steel.
I see plenty of info in the search, but posted as this is a very common problem and there are so many ways to solve it. Let's see what I come up with.
I'm looking at either fabricating one using 2x2 steel tubing, or possibly using some L - brackets with mounting holes for the rad and the condensor welded to the frame, and of course a support for the hood latch. Not sure I like the idea of welding on my frame though.
The Cursed Lower Radiator Support
Well, it was bound to happen eventually. The Lower radiator support on my 2000 Frontier has finally given out. Weather permitting I'll be fabricating something this week and will post pictures. Yes, I know I could just buy the part from Nissan or buy the custom stainless one, but where's the fun in that? And besides, who wants to spend over $200 plus shipping on a three foot piece of steel.
I see plenty of info in the search, but posted as this is a very common problem and there are so many ways to solve it. Let's see what I come up with.
I'm looking at either fabricating one using 2x2 steel tubing, or possibly using some L - brackets with mounting holes for the rad and the condensor welded to the frame, and of course a support for the hood latch. Not sure I like the idea of welding on my frame though.
I see plenty of info in the search, but posted as this is a very common problem and there are so many ways to solve it. Let's see what I come up with.
I'm looking at either fabricating one using 2x2 steel tubing, or possibly using some L - brackets with mounting holes for the rad and the condensor welded to the frame, and of course a support for the hood latch. Not sure I like the idea of welding on my frame though.
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I'm liking the 2x2 square tubing to give it a real solid base for you to work with!
What was your failure mode? Mine is a bit rusty but still solid ish. The bullbar isn't supported by it though.
My upper, otoh, absolutely busted to bits and will need replacing.
My upper, otoh, absolutely busted to bits and will need replacing.
It's got holes rusted through on a couple of sides and the passenger mount tab is rusted thin enough that it bends down. I'm looking at the steel I have on hand to see if I can avoid buying a 20 foot length. I'm also considering going to a metal recycling yard to see if I can get some used stainless to weld up. If I go that direction, I'll pick up some stainless flux core wire to weld it with. If I go the other route It'll be galvanized and get a good coat of etching primer followed by 2 to 3 coats of truck bed liner to make sure it's sealed.
Have you submitted your proposal to your chief financial officer as yet?It's got holes rusted through on a couple of sides and the passenger mount tab is rusted thin enough that it bends down. I'm looking at the steel I have on hand to see if I can avoid buying a 20 foot length. I'm also considering going to a metal recycling yard to see if I can get some used stainless to weld up. If I go that direction, I'll pick up some stainless flux core wire to weld it with. If I go the other route It'll be galvanized and get a good coat of etching primer followed by 2 to 3 coats of truck bed liner to make sure it's sealed.
Filed in triplicate! She just rolled her eyes.... 
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I do recall that item. Looks like a pretty nice piece of work. Would nice to have that as a choice for the island boy.
Yeah, I looked at his online shop. Unfortunately between the cost of the part and the cost of shipping to the island, the price would be a little high for what it is. Not poo pooing his work and it's actually exactly what I have in mind, though as mentioned, I may go galvanized (or even regular mild steel) with a very good coat of bed liner inside and outside of the pipe to prevent corrosion. I've also ordered new rubber mounts. The old ones were a little worn and a little hard. I believe that they, and age of the radiator, were the cause of the micro cracks that caused the slow weeping that resulted in the corrosion. It's a shame to have to say goodbye to the old 3 row copper and brass radiator that I put into it about 19 years ago. That thing was a beast and kept temps chilly. But many of the fins have disappeared. Some do to the huge grasshopper swarm I ran through in Iowa when I drove her from Western Canada to Florida on my way to PR in 06 (I shipped it on a boat... No snorkel needed), and some just due to age and oxidation.
I'll bet you got a discount for the dielectric grease you shared with the Cap'n, and even more when you hooked the rig up to turn the screws for him, eh?
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