Quote:
Originally Posted by bentfab
Well Matt,
I started doning this stuff about 14 years ago. What I was taught with and learned is pretty much the same tools I use to this day. I think most people blow up this subject more than what it is. I've always used imperial eastman. There older style benders have always been the best because there a stout peace. If nessicary you can cut and re-weld the benders to suit your needs. I did this with a 3/8 bender about 13 years ago and I still use it today. In the last few years doing a lot of 5/8 feed lines having a heafty bender is your best friend. I do have one of the benders with the roller wheels on it. It's a nice peace but is limited on how you would bend the tube in certain situations (not being able to make tight bends back to back). Believe it or not e-bay would be a good source for the benders. Also get benders that are one size only. If you hav'nt got the tubing I do stock it in all sizes. Be careful also on the 5/8 tube. What I've learned with the larger sizes 5/8 and 3/4 the wall thickness needs to be a little thicker so it won't collapse when it's bent. Check out the web site if you already hav'nt and go to the mag section and read over the Hot Rod article it gives some more good insite. As for taking things into consideration when doing the job. That my friend has taken me 14 years, alot of money and alot of time. Just take your time plot things out and make sure the car has everything mounted(exhaust,pumps,filters,coolers,etc.) that way you know where to route and not hit or come close to heat sources or abrasion. If you have any questions feel free to call the shop. I hope this helps.
Mark
Bent custom & performance
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Thank you for sharing this great info. We have started hard lining alot of our projects. we have a few different benders including some of the ones you use and have had good results.
I am interested to know what flare tool you are using.
this is the one we have
http://www.thetoolwarehouse.net/shop/MAS-71475.html
we are happy with it but it flares to a 45 and AN fitting are 37 degrees. We haven't had any problems with leaks yet but we are concerned with the durability over time. I have done some looking and haven't been able to find 37 degree dies yet.
I would love to know how you do the flares!
Thanks for the time
Your work is amazing
Howard