Project CRF 450 - SRC Sub-Frame Gusset Kit

Jan. 01, 2003 By Damon Adams

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Tired of your stock play-doh sub-frame? SRC has developed a gusset kit for the 02-03 CRF. The goal is to strengthen the sub-frame and keep it from getting bent very easily by the strategic placement of each gusset to gain the maximum amount of support possible. The kit supplies 5 gussets that have to be welded on. Whether you are doing your own welding or you send it to a welding shop, make sure the gussets are "stitch welded".

Welding

If they are not stitch welded, the sub-frame will get too hot and warp. Stitch welding is creating a short weld on one side of the gusset, let's say ¾" long and then switching to the backside of the gusset and moving up about ¾" again and making another small weld and so on.. This will create a stitch-like pattern. It will also give the aluminum time enough to cool down between welds to prevent warping, rather than making one continuous weld which subjects the frame to intense heat for a long period of time. If you have any questions about this process or if you don't follow where I'm going you can give Wade Summers a call or ask your local welding shop.

Last Corner

Once the welding is complete you can feel the difference in strength just holding the frame in your hands and applying pressure to it. It doesn't interfere with any of the mounting holes, but there are two gussets in the air-box opening that makes changing your air filter just a touch tougher.

Does the kit work effectively? You bet it does! The result is a much stronger sub-frame, especially at all the joints. The weight you gain from this modification is next to nothing. If you have bent, or want to prevent bending your sub-frame, this product will help combat that. At $32.95 this product provides cheap insurance and piece of mind that your sub-frame will take some abuse and still hold its shape. All things said and done this is a modification that all CRF owners should get.

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