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rmfowler1
Joined: 25 Sep 2014 Posts: 11
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Posted: Tue Dec 02, 2014 10:16 pm Post subject: 69 GTO Sheet Metal |
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I am going to be patching up some rust areas on the 69 Goat and was wondering if anyone knew what gauge sheet metal to use on fenders and floor pans?
Also, does anyone have a good recommendation on where to buy online blank sheets of stainless steel?
Thanks,
Mike |
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Larry Site Admin
Joined: 01 Jun 2006 Posts: 4774
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Posted: Tue Dec 02, 2014 10:34 pm Post subject: Patching Sheet Metal |
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Most newer cars are probably 20-22 gauge thickness-- pretty thin stuff.
I think the cars of the 70s and older were probably mostly 18 gauge. I have used some 16 gauge stuff where I want extra strength, and where shaping isn't too hard. You can also weld much easier (without burning through).
You don't want stainless steel. It is too expensive and not weldable with your normal MIG or stick. MIG wire welding with fluxed wire is the best for the hobbyists. BTW, that wire in the big (I think 10lb rolls) is super cheap at Harbor Freight. You may have to hand-roll onto your smaller rolls, but well worth it for the savings.
You also don't want galvanized. It will weld OK, but really smokes as you do so.
Remember, the lower the gauge number, the thicker the material- just like with wire sizes. Below are the sizes.
GA. Thickness
12 - 0.1046
13 - 0.0897
14 - 0.0747
15 - 0.0673
16 - 0.0598
17 - 0.0538
18 - 0.0478
19 - 0.0418
20 - 0.0359
21 - 0.0329
22 - 0.0299
Just a hint. If you want some super sheet metal... scrounge up some air conditioner bodies/boxes. Great stuff, I think mostly 16 gauge; kinda thick, but I've seen the 18 gauge thinner stuff too.
Home Depot has sheet stock. Not too big of sheets, but handy when you need some quickly. Try to find a source that sells to the trades, it is usually much cheaper. _________________ PontiacRegistry.com... building the single largest source of Pontiac information, services, and entertainment in the world! |
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rmfowler1
Joined: 25 Sep 2014 Posts: 11
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Posted: Tue Dec 02, 2014 11:05 pm Post subject: |
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Larry,
You are a plethora of pontiac knowledge! I didn't catch what type of sheet metal to buy.
Once again you keep coming though!
Thanks,
Mike |
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Larry Site Admin
Joined: 01 Jun 2006 Posts: 4774
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Posted: Wed Dec 03, 2014 10:50 am Post subject: Sheet Metal |
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I guess I forgot to mention, just buy steel sheet metal. Some recommend cold rolled, but for your needs of just patching, any steel sheet metal will be fine. Cold rolled just has some extra strength, but your needs aren't structural. _________________ PontiacRegistry.com... building the single largest source of Pontiac information, services, and entertainment in the world! |
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