Straighten frame or not?

Your thoughts please. I'm doing a complete restoration of a '53 3B and have it down to the frame. Leveled the frame on stands and used a plumb bob in front of each shackle mount (to take out any positioning issues with the mounts) at points indicated in Service Manual. Diagonal measurements are as follows:

A(left) to B(right) = 45"
A(right) to B(left) = 44-15/16"

B(r) to C(l) = 50-7/8"
B(l) to C(r) = 50-5/8"

C(l) to D(r) = 49-1/8"
C(r) to D(l) = 49-1/8"

I assumed AB measurements were "close enough" to being equal and then used the intersecting diagonals for the AB and CD legs to establish a centerline, per the manual. The measurements from center then were:

B(l) = 14-10/16"
B(r) = 14-13/16"
C(l) = 14-12/16"
C(r) = 14-10/16"

Per the Service Manual I would need to straighten. With all I have ahead of me with the restoration, I would take it to a shop. Both bumpers have some "dings". Since the front and rear diagonals look to be solid, I wouldn't think I'd need to replace the bumpers before doing any straightening. What do you think?

My goal is to keep this baby forever, as it has always been in the family. I did a search and saw a little of everything as to how others handled theirs. Should I have the frame straightened or is this not really a big deal when it comes to handling? Right now I'm thinking of adding longleaf springs (gives 3" lift) and running normal width 31's. Thanks as always for your advice. Mark

 

If it were me I would asked the shop’s opinion first.

 

I don't know if a frame shop will get it much better than that; sometimes the cure is worse than the disease.
On the other hand, you have it down to the frame; probably won't ever be in this condition again.
I guess if you have the funds, do it. Maybe cost a couple hundred to make it right.
new Jeeps from the factory leaned to the left.
to me, it wouldn't be a big deal.
I would be afraid to measure my frame !

 

I would think you should be alright with what you have. From your measurements the worst one is only 1/4". I would be afraid of the frame shop making the other dimensions worse trying to fix that one. But like said above if you call the repair shop they should be able to tell you if that is enough to worry about.

 

Jeeps are supposed to have straight frames?:?

 

Mine was hogged in the middle. 265lb bumper weight w/ plow assembly up front and a pto and Stratton 3 pt hitch w/ grading implement bucket out back was too much on each end. Frame shop straightened it. I'm hoping that they did a great job. It was so off it bent the body tub on either door opening.

 

Thanks for all the feedback. I stopped at a local body shop this afternoon and their frame guy said not to worry about it - so I'm not. He thought the variation was too small to worry about, especially in a frame of that vintage. Good to hear that from someone with 20 years experince, in addition to all of your comments. Just a few more dollars that can go Herm's way! Stopped by to see him this week and had a great visit. Left him my tranny and xfer case and bought an OD as well. He has solutions for a lot of my needs going forward. I'm having fun but the cash registers are sure starting to ring, as I'm sure you're all well aware.

R)