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I believe the original fenders are what corresponds to something around 17 gauge. I don't doubt that a number of modern steels that are thinner gauge are superior in every respect to what Henry used.
Pete, the process described in the article was not like your link. They were steel dies but not the massive solid blocks typically seen in production. Built up from heavy rolled steel plate, reinforced, and surface hardened. They would use a lower pressure than usual.
Maybe originally 16 ga but the deep draw stretched the metal to 17? I never checked my fenders. You are correct about modern steel.
I didn't see your GM article but Kirksite is normally used for low volume stampings but usually less than 5,000 pieces.
BlueOvalRage's Musclecar GT link is pretty interesting when you go through it particularly the section on deep draw parts on classic truck rear fenders.
It will be interesting to see how well the non Carpenter fenders fit, that is an important test. I was fortunate to buy 48-50 fronts many years ago. In fact it turns out that Chuck of Chucks truck had 2 of one side and I had 2 of the other side. We got together for a swap. I think that may have been before Chuck started his business. I have owned Willard a long time!
Well I just received a set of the front fenders from Midwest early ford. First thoughts are the packing needs work I have always had good luck with Midwest but both fenders were packed in 1 box and one rubbed and scratched the inside of the other. Won't have time to try till after the holidays so ill keep updated then. I know people were questioning who were making them so I took pics of the labels on the box for you guys.
One of the suppliers for Counterpart Automotive is Apex Auto Parts. I wonder if your fenders and mine were made in the same place.
The packaging was pretty poor, resulting in a small dent. I wouldn't hold the packaging against Midwest Early Ford, my guess is that's the way they received it.
To be honest the repro fenders can't be much worse than original stock fenders. These trucks weren't the best manufactured pieces of equipment to start with.
To be honest the repro fenders can't be much worse than original stock fenders. These trucks weren't the best manufactured pieces of equipment to start with.
Bob, I used NOS uppers and original lowers with good fit
