Hmmwv fording and frame rust

[greensix]

I have talked with various companies that rehab hmmwvs. They say the hmmwvs that do alot of fording especially in salt water developed frame rust from the insde out. In some cases requiring frame replacement. Due to lack of drain holes in lower frame section. Has anyone came across this or heard of it. What are thoughts on drilling hole in lower frame section.

 

[Jetnoise400]

Yes, this is a very common problem. The front of the frame rails are open, and when the humvee is run down the ramp off a ship into the sea, those open rails scoop up the water, and since the back of the rails are closed, it just pools up in the low spots and eats away the frame.

I have heard of folks putting a drain hole or two in the frame, but personally I'm a bit hesitant to start drilling into my frame. I do know of some that put that expanding foam stuff into the front of their frame rails to close up the hole so water can't get in.

Hope that helps.

 

[TedG]

The early frame rails are like what Sean stated. Later ones have atleast two .5" holes drill in them. If one drills in the bottom of the rail, just make sure you seal up the raw metal with something so it does not rust. I have seen rails that are FULL of damp sand and they even had those two holes.

Replacing a frame is work but it is doable. New rails cost around $800-$1000 maybe less if you look around.