Quote:
Originally Posted by verbos
Hi,
I would like to make aluminum body and fit it on FFR Cobra 289 frame. I am new in metal shaping so I will have some basic questions but if it's ok I would like to ask in this thread so all the information is in one place.
Metal shaping: I looked at the "What you need to get started in metal shaping" thread. Apart from this equipment I will probably use english wheel and planishing hammer. What are some cheap but reliable solutions I could use? Is it possible (cheaper) to make the english wheel on my own? And will I need any other machines for the project e.g. bending machine? The more compact the better since I don't have that much free space.
Edit: What is the difference between Reciprocating and Planishing hammer?
Thank you all for the comments and advice.
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As to the basic tools needed to take on a complete body build project, I'd suggest the Lazze approach as a baseline. As Lazze teaches in his classes, you can create all the basic shapes needed with an English wheel, shrinker/stretcher, and bead roller beyond the basic hand tools like sheet metal snips, hammers, dollies, and files.
For English wheel, I'd suggest you get one with a strong frame and thus stay away from the cheap, China built stuff. There's lots of good English wheels you can buy or you can build your own frame if you have the inclination. I built my own when I first started in metal shaping hobby:
http://www.allmetalshaping.com/showp...29&postcount=4
There's lots of good information about how to build an English wheel here:
http://www.allmetalshaping.com/forumdisplay.php?f=29
If you want to work faster, then a power hammer is a good way to go. I built mine using the Kent White, TM Technologies motors, dies, etc. Here's the build thread:
http://www.allmetalshaping.com/showthread.php?t=12528 I highly recommend getting access to one of these for a large project like you're talking about. Not required but will make the metal shaping work go much faster and less wear and tear on your shoulders/arms. The tooling for it isn't cheap but worth every penny in my opinion. In addition, it works great for planishing with a #1 motor and "wobbly dies". So in essence, it's a 2 for 1 machine.