Auto body repair & detailing: wrapping and welding a cracked frame

Question
After a front end collision, it cracked the front drivers side frame. It has about 1" crack at top of frame and 1" at bottom. Located very close to the front bumpr. Estimate: how much ate we looking at to to wrap w metal and weld? Thanks   2007 honda accord sedan ex l Debbie

Answer
Hi Debbie!....The proper repair technique to repair this type of situation, is to simply weld up the crack itself. You definitely do NOT want to wrap or reinforce any frame rail in ANY way. The reason being, is that in the event of another collision, the frame rail will be stronger than originally designed, and therefore will not collapse and absorb the impact energy properly. This is known as the term "Structural Integrity". Engineers have designed vehicles, (frames and bodies), to collapse a specific way, and if any component is modified in such a way that it either strengthens or weakens said component, safety is compromised. In your description of the damage, being that the cracks are very close to the front bumper, you need to be aware that vehicles have "collapse" or "crush" zones/areas throughout the frame. These will look like a series of bumps or convolutions. If the crack is throughout this area, it is possible that this will need replacing versus welding. To find out which type of repair is acceptable in this case, you will need to contact an Autobody Shop, as we have available the correct repair procedures for pretty much every Make and Model. Just as a note, when either just welding or replacing the frame rail end, a MIG welder should be used with a size .023 ES70-6 wire. The shielding gas that we use at my shop, is C25 or "Cougar' gas, and will give a proper weld result. In regards to cost, for just welding, I would estimate no more than 1 Hour labor. In a replacing situation, you will have to contact an Autobody Shop to get the exact flat rate time, as times will vary from vehicle, make and model. Rough estimate would be 4 to 6 Hours labor....Hope this helps you out....If you have any further questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to write back....Thanks....Dave