installing door?

[ODDJOB]

I have a 32" door in a block basement wall. The door jamb is metal (welded). I want to replace it with a 36" prehung door unit. Question 1 is can I just cut the existing metal jamb out and enlarge the opening by cutting the block. #2 Should I frame the opening with 2 x6's to accommodate the new prehung unit. #3 There is no lentel above the door I assume this was due to the metal jamb being used to support the block during construction, Is there a need for additional support since I'm going back with a wood unit.

Any help is appreciated

[tooltroll]

1. Yes. Have fun. Support the lintel area while it's unsupported, and watch your head.
2. Yes, depending on the thickness of the block. For 8" block, I'd rip 2x10 to thickness and lag it (with anchors) to the block. That way, the block-ends are hidden... and you can add a casing around both sides to really make it look good... See fig. 1.
3. YES! Ideally you want to put a couple of 4'-ish 4" angle irons to support above the door, recessed into the mortar joint overhanging each side. See fig. 2.

[TnAndy]

TT has a good plan there......I'd do it pretty much the same way, except I'd probably see if I could get the angle lintel in at least one side before I took out the old frame.....if the block above slips any while you take out the old frame, you might have a time getting it back in place.

[tooltroll]

TnAndy's right. That'd be the best way to support it while you're working, especially if you can get both angles in before ripping out the old steel frame.

[ODDJOB]

Thanks guys
I appreciate the help, at least I was reasonably close