85 350X frame issues (stress cracks)

[i58829]

Ok i was looking at an 85 350X today, is it common to find stress cracks on the down tube that is on the left side on the machine, just below the rear motor mount bracket? It appears like it cracked the whole way around the tube and has been welded up. It's hidden by the rear fender, but its about 3 inches above the swinger bolt, and 1/4 to 1/2 inch below the bottom of the motor mount? bracket that is welded onto the frame.

[Vealmonkey]

Yep, that is pretty common to a trike that has seen severe duty. If you can find a 350x that is not cracked in that area, it was pretty much babied. Mine has the same welded crack that yours does and alot of members on here have cracked frames.

[i58829]

Thats what i wanted to hear. Well i'm on my way to pick it up, i wont say much more but i just wanted to make sure it's common (i've seen many that were rusted out there), and i was finally able to get one of those crazy barn find deals...

[Taiser]

You can find the odd frame on e-bay for these. They are pretty easy to repair and any welding shop can beef this up for you. Yeah the 350x should have been beefed up at the factory. I don't think Honda realized how much stress those little frames were getting with a 350 motor! :D

[Dirtcrasher]

They are easy to repair but you have to strip it all down and get it done correctly.

I gusseted the hell out of my buds fram and wrapped that area with another piece of tubing. I am positive he will nevr crack it again, but just rewelding it will not last long.

If you can find a nice "RPM_ATV or ROCKSHOP frame" then you have a great starting point to work with. Many other used frames need a TON of work........ But, still very fixable unless they are tweaked and bent.

[oscarmayer]

dad gum jumpers! :p

[i58829]

Ok well i got it home my cousin is gonna email me the pictures, but to give you a little idea here are some key words: mud flap, perfect frame/tank warning stickers, crack/damage free plastics, one pinhole on top of the seat, Pro-Vectors, stock air filter, and barely any paint rubbed off the cases. Everything is mint (for a bike that was ridden) but that crack/weld and the only paint work is 3/4" above and below the weld the frame is original otherwise. Still has paint marker on the top of the head and underside of the cases. Pics to come, including doing a donut in the grass, and it sitting in the bedroom for safe keeping.

There wont be any resto work or parts replaced, it is what it is and it's better than money in the bank in my opinion, TC...