2 replies to this topic

[rodandtom]

Hi,

So I have cut my '94 Sprite about - got rid of rust and its time to start adding metal again.

I've got some 1.2mm sheet and want to make up some patches. I could do it by cutting a few straight bits and welding them together but I wanted to shep them to do the patch in 1 piece. That way there's less risk of rust in the joints and it should give a nicer finish (I hope).

I've got an angle grinder with various types of cutting discs, grinding wheels, and snading discs so I'm good for that. What else do I need? How do you make smooth bends?

If you can give any advice then please also say what make of tools are good quality. I was looking at Aviation snips and there are lots to choose from. Apart from going on price how do you tell what's decent before you buy it and it falls apart at the first use?

Thanks,

RodAndTom

[sonikk4]

To start with your metal is too thick if you are making general repairs to say the flitch or floor etc.

Aviation snips are not exactly what they say they are to be honest and yes i am in the industry. We normally use the likes of Gilbo's for that but i digress. The ones on ebay do vary with quality but are normally more than enough for what you need on a car.

You can do a lot with a standard vice and several blocks of wood to shape metal with. I have made something like this with just a six inch vice

This is a lower flitch repair section.

If you need anymore info on tools then look at this pinned thread
http://www.theminiforum.co.uk/forums/topic/194176-what-do-you-need-tool-wise-for-welding/

[stretch tech]

i had to make several repair panels when i did my welding a few months back...i just used some tin snips, thicker angle iron to shape 90 degree angles, a block off wood with several different size/shapes holes in it to make curves/bends and a hammer with flat and round heads

Edited by stretch tech, 05 August 2012 - 03:10 PM.