Anyone hardtail a '73 Frame WTF

[hard_y_rd]

O.K, need some input here. I have a 73 TX650 frame trying to get a T.C Bros hardtail mated to it. I read all the posts seems straight forward but do you need to force the seatrails to fit on the seat post.
I know the lower rails are not supposed to be at the same angle but the seatrails are off by about any inch. I'm thinking on using a ratchet strap to get the seatrails in proper place so welding can be done.
Anyone have this problem or does the hardtail fit perfect. Here are some pics. Help

 

[OakBehringer]

Did you tell TC Bros that this is for a 73 frame? An early frame like that is quite different than a late model frame. You might want to get in contact with them.

 

[hard_y_rd]

No, Probably kinda late now. This isn't normal is it?
I seen posts on here with 73's with hardtails. I probably will contact them and see what they say. I didn't mention the year. I just assumed they were the same.

 

[inmotionphotog]

There was a recent build thread with an early girl like yours with a similar situation.

I don't remember the name of the thread, however, if you try searching for it you'll certainly find plenty of pictures and a description of his fix (from memory).

Cheers

Steve

http://inmotionphotogxs650.blogspot.com.au/

 

[hard_y_rd]

Hope someone can refresh your memory inmotionphotog. I'm not much for searchin. Guess i'll have to cause this ain't workin.

 

[ember]

You will have to heat the frame rails down towards the axle plates and bend the rails to the backbone. That is what the other person ended up doing. I will try to search later when I have time.

 

[hard_y_rd]

Thanks dude, keep the info coming cause the motivation level is dropping drastically.

 

[hard_y_rd]

Anyone opposed to doing this.

 

[scabber]

Problem solved weld it up

 

[turn left]

I'm not much for searchin.

I think you just detracted ppl from helping out here

*********************************************
Like the last guy said, weld it up. Going the heat/bend route can potentially lead to weakening the metal if done improperly.

 

[650Skull]

Just have to make sure you haven't twisted the tail. Might pay to make a brace or a square jig to test it is still true.

 

[ember]

I would still heat up the down tubes towards the axle plates with a torch. This way there is less stress on the welds and you can be certain the rear is straight and not twisted.
Here is the thread I was referring to. It is on CC http://www.chopcult.com/forum/showthread.php?t=10951&highlight=bros

 

[inmotionphotog]

That's the thread I was talking about ember. No wonder I couldn't find it here!

Cheers

Steve

http://inmotionphotogxs650.blogspot.com.au/

 

[hard_y_rd]

Thanks guys for all ur help. That thread on chopcult is really helpful. I'm running into the neck issue as well.
I may end up heating the lower rails though like you said ember. Take the stress off of the seatpost welds. Don't what that son of a bitch folding in half going up the road.

 

[smokedyerstang]

I had the same issue with my frame and its an 81. Heating up the lower rails worked like a charm.

 

[hard_y_rd]

I didn't weld up the frame yet, just wondering how to get an even bend on the frame rails when they are heated? I'm a little worried about doing this.

 

[Jayh1813]

I had the same problem and the problem was that the lower rails were not cut in enough. I ended cutting like a 1/4-1/2" more and cuz them at an angle and that allowed the top to drop almost all the way in. I was then Able to press down while my buddy tacked it in place. With the slugs in the lower rail u have a bit of play in the bottom. Mine is a 71 frame. May be worth trying that before modifying the tail.

 

[Belle]

Ya could also find some bends from an old frame, cut the seat stays, butt the bends & weld it all up. I would probably cut near the axle plates if ya aren't looking for that flatty drop seat look.

 

[hard_y_rd]

Jayh1813, If you do that isn't your seatpost slug angle gonna be off and won't line up with your hardtail section cross member.

 

[Jayh1813]

My seat post slug was about a half inch smaller in diameter so it had a lot of slop in it. I thought it was the wrong one. But my buddy assured me it would be fine with his welds. If I get a chance tomorrow ill snap a few pics of how we did it and post them.