Most of the structure of the MGA frame is constructed from 14 gauge steel sheet and tubing (0.075-inch thick). Brackets and pads holding assembly bolts will be thicker material. Floorboard support rails and battery carrier trays are the most common corrosion and welding repair points. There is often some rust perforation on the inboard side of the perimiter frame rails along the edges of the floorboards where carpeting would hold moisture in the joint gap. Very small holes here might be welded shut and ground smooth. Otherwise this may require a cut and weld patch for repair. It is best to cut or grind away any parts remaining of the floor rails while patching the frame side tubes, then weld in new floor rails afterward.

With any welding repair it is best to clear away any siginificant rust before welding. If necessary, cut away any metal that would be rusted thin until you get back to full thickness material before fitting patches. It is good to sand the surface or buff it with a Scotchbrite wheel to remove all traces of surface rust to improve welding results. If you have access to a sand blaster that should do well for cleaning away any visible rust and paint down to bare metal. Sound structural welding is important with full penetration welds and no burn through holes. Grinding it smooth afterward is nice for your pride and joy or to make things fit together in tight or flush places. Otherwise hiding the welds may be time consuming and a matter of personal choice.

See prior pages on removing dents in the round cross tube, bump stop repairs, and the frame straightening tech session. The following page contains notes about some stuffing material you may find inside of the side frame tubes.