Register now to get rid of these ads!

Technical Whats the best way to form this panel?

Discussion in 'The Hokey Ass Message Board' started by Fry, Jul 20, 2021.

  1. Fry
    Joined: Nov 14, 2002
    Posts: 990

    Fry
    Member
    from SK, Canada

    I'm a novice sheet metal guy, I have the most rudimentary tools, crappy bead roller, some body hammers/dollys, shrinker/stretcher, bench top english wheel, mig welder, etc.
    I'm installing new rear wheel tubs in my 55 and the transition from the inner quarter to the wheel well is rusty. What would be the easiest way to make these pieces for both sides?
    I think the lower part will be the hardest, but I'm more concerned about just making the curve all throughout the length of the tub right now, and figure that part out later.

    I don't mind buying one or two tools but I don't have a whole lot of room to keep big tools in my two car garage.
    What would be the easiest way to approach this? Better bead roller with tipping dies? Or maybe get a heavier, better english wheel and use it with the shrinker stretcher to for the curves?
    Is there an easier or better way that someone could elaborate? Or a way I can make it with what I have?

    I also don't really have anyone local that I know of that could assist me in making these.
    Any help would be appreciated.
    Thanks.
    6291955TUB_L700_b9ab6303-4e8b-40a2-bf07-06d55d2d3b76.jpg
     
  2. Take a piece of steel 2-3" wide, (or wider if needed) bend a 90 along it's length then use a stretcher along the top edge to get the curve you need.
     
    fauj likes this.
  3. 20210720_171136.jpg
     
    fauj likes this.
  4. Fry
    Joined: Nov 14, 2002
    Posts: 990

    Fry
    Member
    from SK, Canada

    Thought about that, wonder if the radius will be too tight, it would work, but it’s such a soft transition between the two.
    Not that I need it to look super factory, but would be nice if you couldn’t tell it was patched.
     
  5. Fry
    Joined: Nov 14, 2002
    Posts: 990

    Fry
    Member
    from SK, Canada

    If I was to brake it over a piece of tubing to get the same inner radius, could I still do the same thing? Just stretch the top?
     
  6. oldiron 440
    Joined: Dec 12, 2018
    Posts: 3,838

    oldiron 440
    Member

    I would hammer form it over a dolly.
     
  7. wheeldog57
    Joined: Dec 6, 2013
    Posts: 3,781

    wheeldog57
    ALLIANCE MEMBER

    Hammer and shot bag on your sheet metal, check fit 5 million times, then smooth out your hammer marks with your English wheel, test fit 2 million more times
    Then maybe it'll fit.
     
    fauj likes this.
  8. Squablow
    Joined: Apr 26, 2005
    Posts: 18,291

    Squablow
    Member

    You don't necessarily have to make it all in one piece. If you can't get enough arc shrunk/stretched into it with a gentle curve, just make several pieces. Maybe a 5" wide strip with the arc, then another below and another below until you've formed the top to bottom section. You'll have extra seams to weld, but it would work without needing any overly fancy tools. That whole section of trunk is reproduced as well, although I'm sure you're trying to avoid buying a new panel vs. just making something yourself, which I totally understand and would do likewise.
     
    fauj likes this.
  9. Make a pattern.
    The poster board will show you what to do.
    Bending is easy after that.

    buying tools is up to you.
    I have built tubs by tuck shrinking and hand planishing.
    the ability to shrink and stretch with a tool is limited by the tools depth.

    For lips or bends that are not straight I will make a pattern, lay out the bend and use pliers or a hammer and dolly to make the bend. This eliminates the need to stretch it shrink to make the entire shape.

    sounds like you have everything you need.

    for deep curves, make the part in 2 pieces. Weld in the center of the radius.
     
    Last edited: Jul 20, 2021
    Guy Patterson and fauj like this.
  10. Fry
    Joined: Nov 14, 2002
    Posts: 990

    Fry
    Member
    from SK, Canada

    Thanks for the suggestions, I'll look into each and watch some youtube to get the right idea :D:eek:
     

Share This Page

Register now to get rid of these ads!

Archive

Copyright © 1995-2021 The Jalopy Journal: Steal our stuff, we'll kick your teeth in. Terms of Service. Privacy Policy.

Atomic Industry
Forum software by XenForo™ ©2010-2014 XenForo Ltd.