Ram Heavy Duty Vehicles Require Special Attention For The Front Upper Rail
For the 2019 model year, Ram has made updates to their heavy-duty line of trucks. As with most redesigns, there have been many notable changes, not only to the vehicles style and function, but also to the way it should be repaired. Let’s take a look at the things to look for on the upper rail.
When you access the front upper rail (hydroformed fender rail) sectioning procedure, in the body repair manual for the 2019 Ram 2500, you will notice that you have to choose what year/range for the vehicle you are repairing. Since the vehicle was redesigned in 2019, you will want to look at the 2019 model year procedure. First off, it is important to note that if there are and cracks or damage beyond where the sectioning location is, the entire part will require replacement. The upper rail uses what FCA/Stellantis refers to as, “very high strength steel,” for the upper rail, which has MPa above 600. For this reason, the use of flame or plasma for cutting is prohibited by FCA/Stellantis, because it can change the characteristics of the steel.
The procedure for sectioning states to cut the damaged rail in a specified location. Then to create a 2-inch insert/backer to fit inside the rail. The attachment will be a butt joint with backing along with multiple plug welds and specified locations, 360° around the rail. However, due to the material makeup of the upper rail, FCA/Stellantis states that MIG brazing is the only acceptable attachment method. It’s also important to note that the 2019 Ram 2500 procedure is different than the 2019 Ram 1500. On the Ram 1500 GMA welding is still used for the procedure on the front upper rail. All the procedures are available on stellantisiop.com.
For additional FCA/Stellantis information, check out the following pages:
Alfa Romeo OEM Information
Chrysler OEM Information
Dodge OEM Information
Fiat OEM Information
Jeep OEM Information
RAM OEM Information
Additional I-CAR Collision Repair News you may find helpful:
Collision Information Website Access: FCA/Stellantis
Step-By-Step: Accessing FCA/Stellantis Repair Information
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