Reinforcement on 1VJ Frame?

**Rikard the Swede** · #1 6 Mar 2003

Hello,

For a 4-5 months trip Africa overland, what with, and where do I strengthen the frame on a XT600Z -86 (1VJ)?

I´s supposed to take the load of a single rider and kit.

Thanx...

------------------
Rikard the Swede

**mika** · #2 6 Mar 2003

Hola,

good you ask this before you leave. But anyway finding a good welder on the way is not that difficult.

I am on a RTW since 1999, on a 1987 1VJ.

The Tenere now has 200.000kms and the frame had to be welded three times.

A weak point is under the tank, where the big tube is conected to two smaller ones.

Another weak point is between the footpegs. The tube broke out completly.

But if you travel alone on the bike, no worries. I traveled for too long two up on bad road with to high speed.

Maybe somebody else can tell you how to reinforce the frame a bit.

from Sao Paulo MIKA

------------------

**cabron** · #3 6 Mar 2003

hello

not sure if you have a 1VJ or a 3AJ, but a weakpoint on the 1VJ is the mounting points at the front where the fuel tank is attached to the frame strut by 2 bolts - these always rattle out and lose their thread. might suggest securing it with one bolt right through, but might create a weakpoint in the frame strut.

also, if you secure a rack to your bike for panniers, secure any side panniers with at least 3 points on each side, and loctite the bolts & nuts. also, reinforce the mounting points by welding on pieces of metal with holes drilled through to accept the bolts.

another point to look out for is the rear part of the frame where the back rack joins the main part of the frame - mine broke off and needed welding.

good news is that you can usually find a welder somewhere or other in africa, though the quality varies.

good luck.

[This message has been edited by cabron (edited 06 March 2003).]