Alpha Collision Frame Repair

What's broken can always be repaired. Most manufacturers require a specific frame bench with dedicated fixture attachments tailored specifically for each vehicle. These dedicated systems ensure that each vehicle repaired at Alpha Collision is restored to the tolerances specified by the OEM, which means +/- 1mm to 3mm. This is why we have heavily invested in the highest quality dedicated bench frame repair machines and electronic measuring systems. Our equipment allows us to repair, replace and in some cases where permitted by the OEM realign vehicle uni-bodies and frames, auto and truck frames back to their exact factory specifications.  

Where some Long Island auto body collision repair shops might have one or two frame machines, we have multiple bench frame machines, all for very specific use as some frame machines are for non-European vehicles. This puts us in the position to handle a much higher volume of cars. This translates in to a shorter wait time for customers, no delays while waiting for time on the frame machines.

Can a unibody frame be straightened?

In a unibody that has sustained damage, the repair may be more involved. To straighten the frame, a specialized hydraulic tool must be used. This is because the same large amount of forces must be involved to straighten the frame just as they were involved to bend it.

Can you weld a unibody?

Welding to the unibody is dangerous. Yes! This can potentially ruin your vehicle. If done improperly it COULD leave a very week spot that can become prone to cracking

Unibody Frame Style

Can unibody damage be repaired?

Unibody frame damage is easier to repair in modern vehicles than older vehicles. Instead, the damaged section or sections of the frame can be replaced, leaving the undamaged sections of the frame untouched. Making this a very economical repair process.

What's unibody frame damage?

In the case of damage to a unibody frame, you may notice that the frame is bent. In this case, the auto may not be able to drive straight. It may also remain weak in the damaged area following repairs.

What does frame on body mean?

Body-on-frame is an automobile construction method where a separate body is mounted on a relatively rigid vehicle frame or chassis carrying the powertrain (the engine and drivetrain). Europe's custom-made cars usually contained some wood framing or used aluminum alloy castings.

Why Is body on frame better for off road?

The primary one is that body-on-frame vehicles are better at off-roading and hauling, because their design makes them highly resistant to twisting forces, the kind you'll experience when you're crawling over rocks, for example, or when you've loaded heavy items into your vehicle's cargo area.

Body On Frame Style

Is body on frame better than unibody?

The Benefits of Body-on-Frame Design

When driving off-road, body-on-frame vehicles are also more resistant to dirt, mud, snow, and stones, since they're typically mounted higher than unibody vehicles. Another benefit of body-on-frame vehicles is that they're cheaper to build and repair.

What is the primary feature of body on frame construction?

The primary benefit of this type of construction is resistance to torque and twisting compared to unibody vehicles. That makes these vehicles well suited for off-roading and transporting heavy loads. Off-roaders typically can drive over rougher terrain in a body-on-frame vehicle.