metal work

[Travis77]

Hey guys, need some help. Finally decided to grow a set and begin doing some body work myself on the 67 fastback. There are several mods. I think I can tackle if I just take my time and do it.
I have most of the basic equipment but need a good disc grinder. Does anyone have a grinder preference?
If I was going to smooth the cowl vent, add funtional lower side scoops, and smooth the upper vent, what guage metal would be the best? Thinking 14 but wanted to make sure.

[Happyfunballs]

I'm gonna guess and say the existing metal is 16-18ga. I would probably go with a 16 cause is much eaiser to mess with.

[Travis77]

Thanks for the reply. Where do you guys typically buy your sheetmetal? I have a triple s steel near me that carries all types of metal. Is there metal with rust inhibitor within the metal. I have heared that the new cars have this.

[Happyfunballs]

Not to my knowledge. Unless your talking about galvanized or P&O, none of which I would use for patch panels. Better to get plain ole hot rolled. If you don't need much, I believe Home Depot sells 2'X2' squares.

[bretcopsey]

In my area, Home Depot & Lowes, as well as Ace carry 16ga and 20ga only. I have been using the 16ga stuff myself, and so far have not had problems, but would prefer to have 18ga.

[Camaro Zach]

Hey Travis
Triple S Steel is a great place to get stuff. There is also a place on Telephone rd near the beltway called Steel Supply Inc. But the smallest amount of sheetmetal either place would sell is a 4'x4' sheet. I have a few sheets of 18 ga. at my house right now and a ton of scrap so if you don't need a whole sheet let me know i can hook you up with some smaller pieces. If you do end up buying some metal just buy regular mild steel. It will come coated in oil and if it begins to rust you can spray some wd40 (or something similar) on it to keep surface rust to a minimum. And i wouldn't buy the stuff from Home Depot or Lowes... the small pieces of metal there are WAY overpriced.
Good Luck with your project let me know if you need any help
Zach

[Travis77]

Thanks for the generous offer. I will go by there and get a sheet to start with. As I said I would love to do most of the sheet metal work myself. But, in the event that I want to flush mount my windows and feel it's over my head, do you know of anyone that might do this type of work on the side? I am interested in learning for my own projects and not to make some sort of business. Thought of taking the class at the college, but heard that it's hard to get anything completed there. I supply all the tools, do all the labor, and just pay someone to come to my shop and be an angel over my shoulder. I know, living in a dream world.

[Camaro Zach]

Well i do metalwork on the side everyday on my car and other people's projects. I'd be happy to help you out with your car. I don't work for money when helping/teaching people. I'd go ahead and start my flushmount windshield in the camaro and help you out step by step if i wasnt building the chassis right now. your welcome to stop by the shop anytime if you have some specific questions or just want to talk.

Zach

[Travis77]

Hey guys, got one more question before I start. What coating should I use on the inside portion of the cowl. The hats were removed and sheet metal was installed at an angle to both side of the car to allow water to escape. What is the best product to absolutely prevent rust inside? Also what should I do to the underneath side were my weld will be. Thought of cutting an access hole from the cab to coat under my weld. What do the pros think of this? Camaro Zach I would love to talk or come by, could you email me your number. Thanks Travis [email protected]