Restoration Part 1 (Frame Repair) 【Toyota 2000GT – Episode 6】

2025年9月19日 2025年9月22日たかの

After working on the body, I've been thinking it's about time to do a little work on the frame.
So today, we decided to give it a look.

Stripping Down the Frame – A Closer Look
So, this is what the frame looks like when it’s completely stripped down.
When we think of car frames (or chassis), the ladder-type frame often comes to mind—especially for trucks and buses.
But this one’s different. It’s not the tubular pipe frame you often see in foreign sports cars either.
It has a unique style… and honestly, it looks pretty cool.

Flipping the Frame – First Impressions
To start off, we flipped the frame over.
As expected, there were some rusty spots and a few areas with slight deformation.
It’s pretty much what you’d expect for something of this age and usage.
A bit of rust or minor warping isn’t really a big issue, though—nothing to worry about.

The Part That Always Catches My Eye.
We’ve looked at several cars of this same model over the years, and every time, this particular spot caught my attention.
It’s the underside of the frontmost crossmember—let’s call it Crossmember No.1 for now.
When you don't have access to a lift, the only way to raise to car is to use a jack.
And naturally, the garage jack ends up right in the center of Crossmember No.1, with jack stands (rigid racks) placed on either side.
After repeating this process over and over, the underside has become pretty dented and beat up…
If I finish the frame as-is, chances are this spot will keep getting used for lifting the car and get even worse over time.
(Though, if I remember correctly, this area is technically okay to use with a jack… I think.)

Time to Fix That Spot
So, I’ve decided to do something about it.
First, I removed the welds and took off the dented panel.
In the photo above, you can see the spot welds being drilled out for removal.

Let's See What's Inside
Got it off!
This area always seemed like a spot where water could easily get in, so I figured, “It’s probably a bit rusty inside.”
Well… turns out it’s quite rusty.
So, with that in mind…

①Remove the Rust

②Reinforce and Apply Anti-Rust Protection

③Duplicate the Panel

④Seal it Up

That’s a wrap for Crossmember No.1!
Is this the best way to go about it? Maybe, maybe not—there are probably different opinions out there.
But I’d like to think this approach will lead to a better outcome in the long run.

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