[imjeff]

No need to get defensive, I just don't want anyone else thinking this is the proper way to weld a frame. Welding is not a mystery to me. If we're throwing experience out I will tell you I've been welding for about 40 years, but a journeyman for only about 30 of that. I have a fair amount of both formal training and experience with heat treating techniques and practical experience pertaining to a variety of metal, including mild steel. To not acknowledge the change in space lattice and the resultant vertical stress points just doesn't make sense. Without heat treatment that frame is weak on each side of the weld. Not opinion, fact. Either most every frame shop in the nation doesn't possess your talent or fish plating is an industry standard for a reason. I appreciate your craftsmanship, but would not do a frame like that anywhere but maybe the ends. I hope anyone else doing this consults more sources before they proceed. Good luck!