Brackets in Mild or 4130 ?

[Garage Dog 65]

Gents,

Getting ready to waterjet my suspension bracket files. Reading a couple chassis books and they recommend that all brackets be made in 4130. I don't doubt that would be a better bracket material for strength and toughness – and I plan on doing it if it makes sense.

Just wondering what welding challenges I’ll face welding those onto mild steel tubing ? Any special filler rods or heat treating process I should be aware of ? Should I stick with mild steel for the brackets too ?

In aviation we do the whole deal in 4130 and heat treat the assy after finish welding. Racing is probably the same, but I don’t plan on doing the rails in 4130.

Your help is ALWAYS greatly appreciated.

Thx, Jim

[68protouring454]

are we talking uca,lca brackets etc? if so mild is more then enough, yeah 4130 is better but not really needed, goodluck

[Garage Dog 65]

Yes, upper, lower, engine, transxl and body mounts. I thought Mild would be more then enough and would eliminate any welding or heat treating issues.

Thanks very much for the guidance and fast responce Jake !

Jim

[TravisB]

Mild steel will do the job just fine

[Musclerodz]

If weight is a concern then use 4130. You will be able to run thinner 4130 plate due to its higher strength

Mike

[rocketman]

If your not doing the chassis in 4130 the brackets don't need to be, If your not gonna racing I wouldn't worry about, many of the circle track cars are just mild steel, and many bracket cars are mild steel.