Sheet metal tools needed?
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Senior User
Joined: Dec 2001
Posts: 207
Likes: 0
From: Brockport USA
Sheet metal tools needed?
I am interested in building my own floorpans for my 79 SuperCab. I also want to install some body patch panels. I have A 10" cut off saw, 3" cutting air tool, Grinders, Mig Welder, and Torches. My question is: What other hand tools should I buy? I saw a benchtop fabrication tool that cuts, forms, roll beads, and makes flanges. Thought that might be usefull. What tools are essencial? Please keep in mind I'm kind of a low budget do it yourself kinda guy........
Junior User
Joined: Sep 2003
Posts: 92
Likes: 0
From: S.W. Michigan
I use the heck out of my mini air grinder(90 degree die grinder).In fact I use them so much I bought 5 or 6 at harbor freight and leave them set up(cut off wheel,wire brush,grinding disk).The next thing I would suggest for your project would be either an air nibbler or air shear,both at harbor freight and reasonably priced for how much you will use it.
Posting Legend
Joined: Sep 2001
Posts: 30,255
Likes: 37
Watch the cheap angle grinders from Harbor Freight and Cummins tool etc. They have a plastic gear in them that will melt if you use them for any length of time or put a lot of pressure on the tool. As long as you don't work them too hard they will be OK.
Posting Guru
Joined: Apr 2004
Posts: 1,671
Likes: 1
From: Eastern Shore, Md.
I use thin 4 1/2 wheels on my grinder. I also use my sawzall. One of my fav.tools when doing patch panels are strong flat magnets to help in the tacking process. I made my own floorpans too out of 16 ga. cost about 15 bucks
Junior User
Joined: Sep 2003
Posts: 92
Likes: 0
From: S.W. Michigan
T1st: All I can say is I have 5 all together and when I use them I beat the crap out of them and not one has failed so far(mebbe I'm lucky) but even if they do fail I'll throw'em away and buy another for 20.00.
Just my 2 cents.
Just my 2 cents.
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Senior User
Joined: Oct 2003
Posts: 347
Likes: 0
From: in a house
a nice set(left and right) offset tin snips. they don't bend open when cutting thick sheet metel due to their short jaws and the offset lets your hands work over the work piece to cut some real tight corners. I don't know the name brand of mine off hand but I've been using them for many years and they still cut paper like a good pair of scissors.
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