Local Aluminum Frame Repair?

Searched here and just quickly around Google for local aluminum frame builders/repair and didn't really come up with anything. Is there anyone local to Chicago that does good (even decent) quality aluminum frame repair? Not looking for expensive or perfect, just something solid that will help get my old bike back on the road.

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Permalink Reply by S on June 6, 2013 at 12:13pm

I'm not that's really possible without some pretty specialized training and equipment. Everything I've read says that welding aluminium results in a bond that is weaker than the original metal and weakens the surrounding metal as well.

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Permalink Reply by Gecko on June 6, 2013 at 12:45pm

Yeah, I know it's more difficult than steel to do correctly, but if someone is a good steel welder and they follow the proper procedures it shouldn't be too hard. I had a friend in college who used to weld up custom parts for his 250cc dirtbike all the time, who also welded a broken mountain bike frame for me that's still going strong after 8 years and tons of abuse. From what he told me, it's as simple as grinding the old weld off, prepping the area, preheating the metal, and putting a new bead on. Then, as long as it's cooled properly, it should be fine.

S said:

I'm not that's really possible without some pretty specialized training and equipment. Everything I've read says that welding aluminium results in a bond that is weaker than the original metal and weakens the surrounding metal as well.