sheet metal question

[svtmikey]

I'm just curious. Where does everyone get their sheet metal for repairs from? New, scrap, online???
I've been scavenging my from other wrecked cars, but newer cars have thinner metal, is it ok to use thinner metal for a patch?

Thanks

Mikey

 

[tony barnhill]

I've found that buying body panels ends up less expensive in the long run than trying to fabricate my own out of sheet metal.

 

[mccalebr]

Mikey,
Some of the builder's superstores (Lowes and Home Depot in my area) carry shapes and sheet stock in both cold rolled steel and aluminum; gauge selection is not the best. The price is HIGH...gold would probably be cheaper...but is too soft.

If you need a lot, check with a local sheet metal shop; they will usually sell you what you need.

I've not purchased from the on-line sellers; the initial price is usually better, but the shipping costs eat you up.

Like Tony, I buy most of the stock replacement panels I need from the usual suspects, but there are a few items that are not available, like the "B" posts on the Spridget, or the custom work you might want to do. For example, I fabricated a new recessed pan for a Tilton pedal box that's going into my '62 Sprite just this last week. It's from sheet stock (16 gauge) from Lowes.

Ray

 

[prometalshop]

Hi Mikey
Shopping for used metal from newer cars would not be the best choice and create more work for you than new sheet or even a repo panel. New metal is is a high strength low alloy steel and some what thinner. Check with your local steel mills or even local fab shops. If you buy new your best choice is 19 gauge cold roll 1008 series if not 20 gauge of the same like and kind. 1008 is most suitable for bending shaping and welding with the least of difficulty. If you can't get 1008 try to get no more than 1015, this has a bit more carbon but still not enough to make it hard to shape.
The last two numbers are the percentage of carbon and at 15% or less the panel will be less hard.
I hope this helps.

 

[svtmikey]

Yes, I have also been using replacement panels as well, but there are some items I couldn't get. I was sure what guage of metal to get so the tip about the 19 guage cold roll 1008 is a good one.

Thanks guys!

Mikey

 

[merlinron]

go to a heating and airconditioning shop. they usually will have a supply of 14 to 20 ga. sheet for making ductwork and brackets. you will want to ask for "black iron" that is the trade name for sheet stock that is not galvanised. it's dirt cheep there as compared to the big box stores.

 

[svtmikey]

Even better!
Thanks