So I got this jeep after it was in in a minor fender bender, what I thought was merely bumper damage turned out to be a bent unibody right where the driver side mount is.







Can I just heat this part up with with a torch and pull it back straight? Any ideas are helpful.
Thanks.

 

A porta-power or strap attached to something solid should do well. As may heat and something like large channel locks.


That is the very end of the rail and isn't really structural (not even boxed at that point, just double thick sheet metal), all it really does is hold the bumper on so you really just need to get it straight enough for the bolt holes to line-up.


An aftermarket bumper with frame-tie ins would probably be a good idea, but as long as you can get it straight enough for the holes to line up a factory bumper should bolt up as well.

 

I fixed mine which was worse with a hammer in about 5 good hits. New bumper fit perfectly.

 

I agree with XJ-92 If you use a come along and get some tension on that and tap it with a ball-pen hammer it will straighten out. I would look the whole rail over well though. My sons XJ was in a fender bender before we bought it and after lifting it and wheeling it.The steering area developed that nasty crack. Flexing all over the place while steering. I would plate it if it is to be an off road worrier just to be on the safe side.

 

Does anyone think after the repair is done that Buddo Should weld/support the area with x-tra metal?

 

I wouldnt worry about welding metal on it. Just beat it back and put your bumper on it.

 

- If aftermarket bumper with winch = In any case you'll need tie-ins which will give you 3-6 extra bolts.
- If stock or no winch bumper = Pound it straight and forget about it.

C-Rok
DIY (pending additional hole drilling)

 

Thanks guys, this jeep isnt going to see hardly any offroad time, 2wd and i already have one 4x4 project xj so no need for 2. I went and got a torch and Im going to heat it up tonight and pull on it while having a buddy hit it with a hammer

 

I have the same problem but mine is bent on the passenger side. I order a JCR unibody re-enforcement kit to help with this.