Cracked frame help.

[moodster]

I found this earlier today on my ride. I pretty sure I know the answer to my question but I thought I'd throw it out there anyway. Any kind of repair that can be done? Thanks...

[Dead Man]

I've got good news and bad....

The bad: You're in the market for a new frame.

The good: You're getting a new frame!

TiCycles up in Portland will put a new head tube on thar for probably under/around $600, fyi. At least that's what I got quoted for a new seat tube on a Ti frame, and I would imagine this an easier fix than that.

[dustyrider]

Get in touch with the maker if possible. I'm sure they'd have some suggestions. Bummer...

[AngryScientist]

black sheep?

yea, that needs a head tube replacement or decommissioning.

[Mark McM]

Originally Posted by Dead Man

TiCycles up in Portland will put a new head tube on thar for probably under/around $600, fyi. At least that's what I got quoted for a new seat tube on a Ti frame, and I would imagine this an easier fix than that.

Replacing a head tube is way easier than replacing a seat tube. This also gives an opportunity to do other head tube related changes if desired, such as adding extra height, or changing to a tapered fork.

[moodster]

Thanks guys. Was thinking along same lines.

[moodster]

Originally Posted by AngryScientist

black sheep?

yea, that needs a head tube replacement or decommissioning.

Yep Black Sheep.

[linger]

The first thing you should do is contact James at Black Sheep and talk to him. Are you the original owner?

[nicrump]

I have a pal here in Austin who had the same type crack, same location on a ~2yo ti frame from a reputable builder. I told him it was toast. He sent it back and the reputable builder actually repaired the crack by welding it up, re-cutting the bore and re-blasted the frame. You could not see the repair and said builder said, "if it fails again I'll build you a new bike. That was 6 years ago.

still going strong.

Your builder may have a different approach. Go with that.

[oliver1850]

Hose clamp will fix it.

[moodster]

All good ideas guys ill reach out to James first.Mike

[Peter P.]

Originally Posted by oliver1850

Hose clamp will fix it.

Don't laugh; I had a Bridgestone MB-3 crack around the circumference of the top tube. I put a hose clamp around the crack and continued to ride it for 8 weeks while I waited for delivery for a replacement.

Regarding welding that crack: On the same MB-3 mentioned above, the chainstay cracked on the drive side chainstay, right where you'd get chainsuck.
I had a friend lay down a bead of weld over the crack. I totally forgot about it, and the repair lasted for years, until the top tube failure above. So I wouldn't be surprised if a weld would be a viable repair.

[mktng]

If not a warranty fix.

Check this..

http://forums.thepaceline.net/showthread.php?t=200228
Page 1 - issue
Page 3 - fix + additions

The frame can be fixed, if it isnt covered under warranty. However.. its just down to how much youre willing to spend.

[Mikej]

If possible, maybe a 44mm ht as well. Also, consider your current hta- is it too steep? You could incorporate a geometry change. Even at $600 that's a deal to keep a frame like that rolling.

[xvxax]

echoing what others have said here, bummer that's in spot that requires precision, would definitely have to re-mill the inside of the tube if you welded it.