Project "ItDoRun" - Phase Two - Lateral-g Forums

rlplive · #1 11-16-2009, 04:45 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ItDoRun

Just have patience and think your way through it. Always think two or three steps ahead of what you're doing and don't worry about screwing up because you WILL. Remember, a cut off tool, grinder, hammer, dolly, and welding machine can fix anything on the car so don't be scared about screwing something up.

Also, do your homework on the reproduction panels. Some fit better than others. Certain panels (no matter which brand) have certain issues that will need to be addressed. It's better to know these things before you weld them on. Finally, just fit the panels until they can't fit any better and then weld them up. It's really not as bad as it looks. It just takes time and patience...oh and money! Good Luck.

Awesome man, I have been telling my wife I need to get a cut off wheel. My car was actually hit on the left quarter panel and the floor is tweaked. I think my first step is going to be getting my car on a frame machine to make sure it is straight. Then I need to replace the floor, and do some rocker work. I am trying to keep mine drivable. I am pretty sure my left frame rail is going to need some straightening and rust repair as well. Keep the updates coming. I may have to ask you questions from time to time.
Ryan

**GregWeld** · #2 11-16-2009, 04:54 PM

Just to be sure -- not ONE cut off saw... SEVERAL! You'll use them in various situations - so you need straight - 90* - a body saw is helpful too... and LOTS of blades for it... two or three different grinders help too... so all in all - about a dozen should just about get 'er done!!

Merry Xmas. I buy new ones for my wife every year... She doesn't use them much so she let's my borrow 'em.

ItDoRun · #3 11-16-2009, 05:11 PM

Thanks for clearing that up Greg! You're absolutely right.

I went to Harbor Freight and bought a 4-1/2" electric grinder, a die grinder, and a 1/4" angle grinder before I started my build. I have about $40 including tax in all three tools. My 1/4" angle grinder started making some pretty nasty sounds yesterday, so I guess it's time to trash it. Not a bad investment for $15...it built most of my car before biting the dust. I really want to see it fly apart before I throw it away! It sounds REAAAALY nasty.

I do suggest a good compressor before starting all this. I had a smaller horizontal 5hp compressor, but it couldn't keep up with the air tools. I ended up buying a 2-stage 5hp 80 gallon compressor from Sears and haven't looked back.

**GregWeld** · #4 11-16-2009, 05:20 PM

You can never have too big of a compressor!

:>)

I have Snap-On die grinders - and I have everything in between - including Harbor Freight versions... I agree with you - they've gotten so cheap - you buy a couple and toss 'em when they go bad. While I prefer, by far, to buy American - it's hard to justify a Snap-On cut off tool when the junk versions work just as well.

Once you get a good compressor - then all your tools go air... drills - grinders - dimple dies... then you have to convert your engine hoist to air... and your tranny jack... Next thing you know - you're blowing the floor clean instead of using a broom...

ItDoRun · #5 11-16-2009, 05:44 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by GregWeld

Next thing you know - you're blowing the floor clean instead of using a broom...

I thought I was the only one!

rlplive · #6 11-16-2009, 07:44 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ItDoRun

Thanks for clearing that up Greg! You're absolutely right.

I went to Harbor Freight and bought a 4-1/2" electric grinder, a die grinder, and a 1/4" angle grinder before I started my build. I have about $40 including tax in all three tools. My 1/4" angle grinder started making some pretty nasty sounds yesterday, so I guess it's time to trash it. Not a bad investment for $15...it built most of my car before biting the dust. I really want to see it fly apart before I throw it away! It sounds REAAAALY nasty.

I do suggest a good compressor before starting all this. I had a smaller horizontal 5hp compressor, but it couldn't keep up with the air tools. I ended up buying a 2-stage 5hp 80 gallon compressor from Sears and haven't looked back.

I have a decent size craftsman air comp. My main problem is my garage is only 17x11 so it is a tight squeeze. Thanks for all the tips though.

gearheads78 · #7 11-19-2009, 10:03 AM

Not sure how I have missed this build but looking though it you are doing a great job. I can't wait to see more progress.

ItDoRun · #8 11-20-2009, 10:48 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by gearheads78

Not sure how I have missed this build but looking though it you are doing a great job. I can't wait to see more progress.

Thanks. I took off from work next week, so if the moon and stars align properly, I should have more photos next week. Hopefully, I can get the front subframe back under it, and maybe even start the subframe connector install. But, of course, life always gets in the way.

tobenk · #9 01-01-2010, 11:18 PM

Chris how u comin on the car? It looks awesome so far. Thats alot to do for the first time but u look like u doin well. I have my truck tore down rite now to goin to powdercoat frame then start puttin back together i hope.

Toben