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that is an idea I've been toying with the last few days. I have the resources available to me but not sure if I have the time...
I'm going to run an aluminum version through a stress simulation program to see how they would handle fat chicks so that might be an option. If I made more sets they would probably be MIG welded instead of TIG, glass beaded to clean it up, then buff/polish the outside skirt. This set is all 1/4" 304 stainless which is plenty beefy but I'm curious about 1/4" aluminum.
Nice job!
I designed, produced and have sold 3 different rear disc brake conversion adapter brackets to put later model Ford rear discs/calipers on older Mustangs, Cougars and related Fords. I haven't made enough money off of them to quit my day job but, I've made enough money off of them over the years to fund the purchase of tools and car/truck parts.
Make yourself a limited run of 10 or 20 sets and just see how it goes.
I still have my first vehicle --1968 Mustang. I bought it 33 years ago this month.
Alright guys, you've twisted my arm; I will start making additional pairs of side steps for interested buyers for '67 to '79 trucks. I have the pattern done for the '67-'72, and I will have the bolt holes modified to fit the '73-'79 by this weekend. I'm going to have aluminum parts lasered out next week to make an initial set in aluminum.
I can't forecast the prices or lead times just yet but I will post updates to this thread as they come along.
So who likes aluminum and who likes stainless? (powder coated carbon steel is also an option)
OK, it has been a while since I have posted so here is a quick update:
I have the 73-79 pattern 95% done for the stainless version and that will go into the queue for the laser cutter next week.
I have been waiting for a test piece in aluminum as one press-break operator says the 1/4" 5052 H32 aluminum will snap in two during bending operations and the other operator disagrees. The pieces have to be oriented a certain way on the 5'x10' sheet when they get laser cut to get the bend versus grain correct and prevent breaking. The test piece will also allow me to get the inner radius on the gusset to match the bend o.d. of the step (the aluminum might use different dies than the stainless).
I am revising the bottom skirt slightly to make it simpler to fabricate; end result will look the same but will require less grinding.
I like the look of those step plates also. I showed those to my brother before I started with the other style; he wanted a narrower step, but those arequirements handsome. It looks like they're simply a little bit wider and the step platform like I made would just need to be stretched a little.
Good luck on your project & post some pictures when you get them mounted up!
We shall see, as they are being shipped to San Diego, where I will pack them for the drive down Baja. I am just guessing, but I think that they might have been step plates, for late '40's flare side pickups. You know, the small step behind the cab, and ahead of the fender. Just a guess though... as I have not had one in my hand. Yet..
Update time: the prototype pair for the 72 highboy is finally complete with pictures below! They have the final 12 gauge brackets polished & added on, final polish done to the skirting (shiny enough for a low rider!), grade 8s to handle shear & clamping forces, and polished s.s. button head cap screws to help with the clamping. The grade 8s are hidden from view when installed & the hardware will have s.s. lock nuts. Just got the aluminum step plates back from the powder coater with high gloss clear. They look good but I wish they were available in stainless!
Congratulations amigo, you have THE ultimate step for Highboys. Would they fit a '68 F250? Any idea what you are going to ask for them, when in production. ?? They should command a nice price, for the real value and workmanship... Very pro.. I have worked in the Nuclear Power industry, for 35 years, and want to pay you the ultimate compliment.. they are Nuclear Grade !
thanks for the compliment! Yes, I haven't forgotten about your set either. The pieces have been lasered out and my welder guy will be back from his hunting trip next week so it will start going together pretty soon.
The aluminum set has been laser cut & survived the press break! They came out with just two little tears at the bottom bend that will get welded up, but they look good. The next aluminum set will get a revised bend relief but this first set will turn out very well. I'm thinking of glass beading the entire step before polishing the outer skirt like the polishing on the stainless version. Here are some initial photos...
09-24-2015, 12:56 PM
