Bending a 4130 chromoly frame with heat question

[pedro5189]

Hello,

I have a 24" wheeled jump frame that is 4130 chromoly, my plan is to modify it some what to fit a standard 135mm mountain bike rear hub in because as it stands it has a BMX width of 110mm. I have decided the best way to do this is to bend out the rear triangles at the point that they have been shaped for the tyre clearance as I believe this is the best way to keep the frames strength.

My question is, will it be ok to heat the tubing to red hot at the place I want to bend it?

Will the tubing loose much strength?

Will I need to quench it or just allow it a slow cool down?

Any other suggestions?

Thank you in advance

 

[spad4me]

Sheldon brown sez ...


http://www.sheldonbrown.com/frame-spacing.html


I only use a torch on donor bikes used to make a homemade recumbent.


NEVER bend aluminum frames.

 

[Mountainman]

we would just bend them out a little -- no heat
MM

 

[pedro5189]

thank you, i likes the sound of that far better than the heat idea, just hope it doesn't pivot at the welds too much and work harden