Unbending Loader Tubular Strut

[Paul_NJ]

Hi Guys

I recently acquired an IH 1701 loader at a good price, and am working on adapting it to fit on my 340. However, one of the tubular support struts is pretty bent in it's middle. I've attached a photo to show what I'm talking about - the photo shows the two good struts - and neither strut is connected to the frame in this photo - I have to make a 3/4" plate to adapt a connection.

However, (finally) here's my question. I figure if I heat the bent tube cherry red, I can likely hammer the tube straight, perhaps by lying it in a piece of angle iron as a support, and beating it with a hammer. Assuming I can get it straight, will it be weakened by doing this? As it is likely mild steel, I wouldn't think any strength would have been lost, but I was told that once you bend a piece of steel you may as well throw it away because even if you straighten it it will never be as strong. Is this true? I would appreciate any thoughts.

Thanks

[Paul_NJ]

Let's try that again

[John *.?-!.* cub owner]

Paul, I'm not that experienced at doing that kind of work, but you might consider taking it to a local welding/machine shop. They should be able to straighten it wihtout weakening it.

[beaconlight]

Even if it is weakened they shoulds be able to put a fish plate on it.

Bill

[Bigdog]

Paul, that strut was likely bent by hitting something rather than being bend from loading. I suspect if it is straightened, it will still be strong enough to do the job as long you don't run into anything with it.

[Matt Kirsch]

I wouldn't beat it straight. Heat and bend it straight by clamping it to something solid, then using whatever leverage you need to do the job.. Hammering will only flatten out the tube.

[Bruce Sanford]

It seems to me that many years ago to bend pipe they use to fill the pipe with sand,plug the ends ,heat it and bend it. Or you might think of taking it to your local muffler shop,and have it put in one of there pipe benders. Bruce