[modelAmike]

Hi there,

I would like to introduce myself. My name is Mike and I am interested in learning more about sheet metal fabrication and hopefully receiving answers to some questions that have come up while working on my 34 Ford 5 window coupe.

Let me start by saying that I've grown up around the car hobby. My father has worked as a Dupont paint rep for the last 30 or so years. Before that he worked in their warehouse prepping orders for customers, etc. He has taught me a lot when it comes to paint and prep of metal, as well as how to paint using different medias. He's one of my heroes.

My brother currently works as a technician for Porsche. He's the best brother a guy could ever ask for.

My Grandfather was a self-imployed tractor/heavy equipment mechanic down in Sleepy Eye, MN. A little rough around the edges, abrasive, but had a heart of gold. He taught me a bit at a very early age about mechanics and what it means to be loyal.

My future father in law has a front engine dragster. Through helping him at the track I have had the opportunity to meet some really talented fabricators. Some of these people are not just great at welding and bending tin, these are some of the best morally equipped individuals I have ever met.

I could go on about other relatives that have worked as technicians and self imployed shop owners going back to the 30's and 40's, but I'm here because I want to continue learning about bending and shaping metal to suit my own needs.

What has sparked this interest is my love for the history of hot rodding and the craftsmen that were involved with this artform early on. Seeing photos of what people were doing back in the 40's, 50's and 60's motivates me.

I am currently working on a decrepid old crusty ex-roundy race car of a 34 ford coupe. This things needs a lot of love. I'm hoping to use this forum along with the little bit I have learned about metal shaping thus far to make my old coupe presentable.

Thanks for taking the time to read all of this and I look forward to participating with this forum.