Your list of must have shop equipment

[gerno]

Looks like soon I'll be moving out of the duplex I'm in and into a house with a full 2 car garage and a nice little 25x30 shop in the back yard. It's a little ways away from the fun of downtown Austin so I also want to be sure I have all the tools to play with. No use in buying it and not being able to use it.

As of now I have many of the basic tools but am curious what tools you guys have that I should consider purchasing and rating by most important first. My budget for new tools will most likely be ~10-15K which I know can go very fast. If there is already a thread with this info let me know. I searched for a bit but did't find anything specific.

What I think I have, stuff has been stored for ~2 years now so hard to remember
Large roller box full of hand tools.
1/2" and 3/8 impact guns
Decent smaller Harbor freight press
Bead blast cabinet
Lincoln 155 MIG
Thermal Arc Fab 250 MIG
Metal chop saw (with a blade, not abrasive)
2 floor jacks
Lots of 3 and 6 ton jack stands
2k winch to pull cars in and out of the shop
double flaring tools and small tube benders
Engine hoist
Multiple angle grinders
Cheaper bench grinder
A couple cheaper vises
Small 30 gallon compressor that's too slow and noisy
Harbor freight solvent tank



Things I am considering to purchase
Large 220v ~80 gallon compressor
Build some nice solid steel tables
Tubing bender - most likely JD2 but open to suggestions
Tubing notcher - not sure what brand
Plasma cutter
Belt/Disc sander
TIG - I have no idea how to use it but really want to learn....
Some kind of crane system in the shop to keep from getting more hernia's
Lathe - thinking 6"x 3ft or so
Mill - either small bench top or used large one
Stomp Shear - used 3 ft or so
Decent bead roller
Metal Bandshaw
Dimple dies
Smaller metal break
Lift - Possibly, debating if it will take too much room
Smaller CNC Plasma table - thinking could also use to make some side $$
English wheel
Planishing hammer
Shrinker/Stretcher
Alignment tools
Race scales
???????

[Sieg]

Things I am considering to purchase
*Large 220v ~80 gallon compressor
*Build some nice solid steel tables
Tubing bender - most likely JD2 but open to suggestions
Tubing notcher - not sure what brand
*Plasma cutter
*Belt/Disc sander
*TIG - I have no idea how to use it but really want to learn....
*Some kind of crane system in the shop to keep from getting more hernia's
Lathe - thinking 6"x 3ft or so
Mill - either small bench top or used large one
Stomp Shear - used 3 ft or so
Decent bead roller
*Metal Bandsaw
Dimple dies
Smaller metal break
Lift - Possibly, debating if it will take too much room
Smaller CNC Plasma table - thinking could also use to make some side $$
???????


* = must haves IMO

I just acquired a 34" x 110" 3/8" plate work table on casters and it is a real luxury.

A 1x42 belt/disc combo sander for small stuff is priceless and one of my most used tools. I'd really like to have a 12" disc also.

A horizontal mitering bandsaw is another tool I use frequently, more than the 9" cold saw and one can't replace the other.

Plasma cutter is a must IMO, doesn't get used a lot but it's a little tool that does big things and is just fun to use.

Regarding a hoist - maybe a larger fold up cherry-picker would suffice?

What about a small painting area? That's one thing I don't have that I need frequently!

Fair warning - You're going to run out of space fast. Draw a floor plan and start doing an equipment layout with reasonable clearance allowances and a good free work space and prioritize from there. :thumbsup:

[dontlifttoshift]

BurrKing.

You're already out of space with that list unless you are working on the car in the driveway.

[BMR Sales]

You said a Lift depending on space. My lift is the best thing I have ever bought! Mine (Rotary 4 Post) is bolted to the floor, but they make a Caster kit so you can move them around.

[gerno]

* = must haves IMO

I just acquired a 34" x 110" 3/8" plate work table on casters and it is a real luxury.

A 1x42 belt/disc combo sander for small stuff is priceless and one of my most used tools. I'd really like to have a 12" disc also.

A horizontal mitering bandsaw is another tool I use frequently, more than the 9" cold saw and one can't replace the other.

Plasma cutter is a must IMO, doesn't get used a lot but it's a little tool that does big things and is just fun to use.

Regarding a hoist - maybe a larger fold up cherry-picker would suffice?

What about a small painting area? That's one thing I don't have that I need frequently!

Fair warning - You're going to run out of space fast. Draw a floor plan and start doing an equipment layout with reasonable clearance allowances and a good free work space and prioritize from there. :thumbsup:

Good call in the layout and running out of space. I understand that as well. I haven't closed on the property as of yet so it will be some time while I brainstorm. My thought on the layout was since it has 3 doors on the front I would really only use the middle door for cars and have the other 2 bays for work areas. I can store my car in the actual garage.

Most of your items were part of my priority list. What bandsaw do you have? Do you need the smaller belt or would a combined disc/belt sander with the wider belt also work ok for what you do?

BurrKing.

You're already out of space with that list unless you are working on the car in the driveway.

Not sure I can afford the Burrking without blowing my complete budgety. It looks terrific but what is the real advantage in one of those vs a combined belt/disc sander?

I know space will be very tight. The list was more for overall thought. I'd love to have it all but understand both budget and space will not allow. This is why I am asking for other people's opinions. One advantage is there are 2 out buildings on the lot as well. One is designed to house the air compressor with 220v wired already. The other I may set up for part storage or the cleaning tank or perhaps a paint booth as Sieg brought up. Not sure.


You said a Lift depending on space. My lift is the best thing I have ever bought! Mine (Rotary 4 Post) is bolted to the floor, but they make a Caster kit so you can move them around.

I'm still very much considering a lift but I need to check the overall layout first. Do you prefer the 4 post vs an offset 2 post?

[dontlifttoshift]

Not sure I can afford the Burrking without blowing my complete budgety. It looks terrific but what is the real advantage in one of those vs a combined belt/disc sander?


Versatility. It takes 5 seconds to change a belt and I can grind a radius in a piece of 3/8 plate or put a brushed finish on a stainless exhaust.

Disc sanders I have never seen a use for, maybe a big 24" one would be nice but they tend to create too much heat which kills the abrasive right quick.

[Sieg]

Good call in the layout and running out of space. I understand that as well. I haven't closed on the property as of yet so it will be some time while I brainstorm. My thought on the layout was since it has 3 doors on the front I would really only use the middle door for cars and have the other 2 bays for work areas. I can store my car in the actual garage.

Most of your items were part of my priority list. What bandsaw do you have? Do you need the smaller belt or would a combined disc/belt sander with the wider belt also work ok for what you do?


Not sure I can afford the Burrking without blowing my complete budgety. It looks terrific but what is the real advantage in one of those vs a combined belt/disc sander?

I know space will be very tight. The list was more for overall thought. I'd love to have it all but understand both budget and space will not allow. This is why I am asking for other people's opinions. One advantage is there are 2 out buildings on the lot as well. One is designed to house the air compressor with 220v wired already. The other I may set up for part storage or the cleaning tank or perhaps a paint booth as Sieg brought up. Not sure.


I'm still very much considering a lift but I need to check the overall layout first. Do you prefer the 4 post vs an offset 2 post?

Here's my bandsaw: http://metal.baileighindustrial.com/horizontal-and-vertical-band-saw-bs-712ms
I use the cold saw for a lot of the miter cuts I make as they are usually small scale.

The 1x42 is an older Delta combo belt/disk that I've had since '89/90 I wouldn't be without, I originally bought it for golf club fab and repair work. It just lacks the size and power needed for automotive/steel fab.
This is almost identical: http://www.jettools.com/us/en/p/j-4002-1-x-42-bench-belt-and-disc-sander/577003

The BurrKing 2" belt would be a wonderful luxury! Personally I'd buy a 12" disk before the 2" belt. The Jet 12" disk/belt combo might not be bad less expensive option: http://www.jettools.com/us/en/c/metalworking-grinding-finishing-belt-sanders-and-grinders/300?filter=1

What I do for a makeshift small parts paint 'both' is I keep a larger cardboard box that I split the seam so it folds up flat, in use it looks like this:

http://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-VFJH9fZ/0/L/i-VFJH9fZ-L.jpg


My 'new' fab table, it's moved over to where the Camaro has just enough space to park and be able to walk around it:

http://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-fF7Ztzg/0/XL/i-fF7Ztzg-XL.jpg

[raustinss]

Anything you can store out of the way or in a cabinet do so, then when you make your steel table weld a 2 "receiver hitch to it... make a small little table that can be adjusted height wise slide in to the receiver. you now have a adjustable table say 16" square that you can use to mount some of your smaller tools on i.e bench top drill press,small belt sander, grinder etc.
You can actually use this idea all over the shop for many different uses...just have to give some thought into what tools you need out all the time. Put the rest away giving you more space and making the garage cleaner
Good luck Ryan

[Shmoov69]

You're pretty much out of space to work once the car gets in there. Unfortunately the "shop" collects all kinds of other things when it is there. Space is a vacuum and it fills quicker than you can imagine! LoL!

You have (or will have) a shop now, bite the bullet and get a lift. You'll kick yourself for not getting one earlier, even in a "small" garage! I don't see an engine stand on your list, irreplaceable when you actually need one. Shelves..... LOTS of them, to get the junk out of the way! LOTS of lights, and plug in's too. Shop vac. Extra cords, air hoses and empty buckets. STEREO!! Good tv if you like to keep up with sports while you're out working. Some sort of heat system and a fan of some sort for the summer.

[rickpaw]

I don't see a floor press and drill press on your list. You'll need the floor press to use with dimple dies. Drill press is not a must, but nice to have.

Also, you'll need to see if you have enough outlets/amperage for all your tools in the shop. Nothing worse than dragging extension cords around, or having breakers tripped.

Early congratulations on your new place.

[gerno]

Sieg - that is a very meaty table you have there. Also looks like you have a ton of projects outside of the car addiction.

Anything you can store out of the way or in a cabinet do so, then when you make your steel table weld a 2 "receiver hitch to it... make a small little table that can be adjusted height wise slide in to the receiver. you now have a adjustable table say 16" square that you can use to mount some of your smaller tools on i.e bench top drill press,small belt sander, grinder etc.
You can actually use this idea all over the shop for many different uses...just have to give some thought into what tools you need out all the time. Put the rest away giving you more space and making the garage cleaner
Good luck Ryan

Thats a very good idea with the receiver. I'll have to keep that in mind.

You're pretty much out of space to work once the car gets in there. Unfortunately the "shop" collects all kinds of other things when it is there. Space is a vacuum and it fills quicker than you can imagine! LoL!

You have (or will have) a shop now, bite the bullet and get a lift. You'll kick yourself for not getting one earlier, even in a "small" garage! I don't see an engine stand on your list, irreplaceable when you actually need one. Shelves..... LOTS of them, to get the junk out of the way! LOTS of lights, and plug in's too. Shop vac. Extra cords, air hoses and empty buckets. STEREO!! Good tv if you like to keep up with sports while you're out working. Some sort of heat system and a fan of some sort for the summer.

I'll keep my eye out for a lift at a good price. From what most people say I think the offset 2 post is the most popular. I'm not sure how much I would use the 4 post since most of the time I'm messing within the suspension or brakes.

The shop has full AC and heat already plus a little 1/2 bath. I won't know what to do if I'm not sweating my a** off during the summer working on the car


I don't see a floor press and drill press on your list. You'll need the floor press to use with dimple dies. Drill press is not a must, but nice to have.


Also, you'll need to see if you have enough outlets/amperage for all your tools in the shop. Nothing worse than dragging extension cords around, or having breakers tripped.

Early congratulations on your new place.

I have a floor press, I just wasn't very clear on my description "Decent smaller Harbor freight press" Drill press is something I will get if I decide not to do a mill. I had a bench top mill previously and really used it a lot despite the lack of depth.

The place seems to have good power but I'm getting an electrical inspector there today. The previous owner but the faster UTV to run Pikes Peak in there so it has had fab experience. I don't know all the details but there is a 50 and 90 amp 220v outlet, very good lighting and the outbuilding has 220v for the compressor.

Thanks for the congrats. Hopefully everything goes smoothly thru the close.

[BMR Sales]

I'm still very much considering a lift but I need to check the overall layout first. Do you prefer the 4 post vs an offset 2 post?

I have a 4 Post with a Jack Bridge, so I prefer the 4 Post.

Certainly 2 Posts have their advantage of being able to do Suspension, Brake & Wheel work

[GregWeld]

Put my responses in RED....







Looks like soon I'll be moving out of the duplex I'm in and into a house with a full 2 car garage and a nice little 25x30 shop in the back yard. It's a little ways away from the fun of downtown Austin so I also want to be sure I have all the tools to play with. No use in buying it and not being able to use it.

As of now I have many of the basic tools but am curious what tools you guys have that I should consider purchasing and rating by most important first. My budget for new tools will most likely be ~10-15K which I know can go very fast. If there is already a thread with this info let me know. I searched for a bit but did't find anything specific.

What I think I have, stuff has been stored for ~2 years now so hard to remember
Large roller box full of hand tools.
1/2" and 3/8 impact guns
Decent smaller Harbor freight press
Bead blast cabinet
Lincoln 155 MIG
Thermal Arc Fab 250 MIG
Metal chop saw (with a blade, not abrasive)
2 floor jacks
Lots of 3 and 6 ton jack stands
2k winch to pull cars in and out of the shop
double flaring tools and small tube benders
Engine hoist
Multiple angle grinders
Cheaper bench grinder
A couple cheaper vises
Small 30 gallon compressor that's too slow and noisy
Harbor freight solvent tank



Things I am considering to purchase
Large 220v ~80 gallon compressor

Be sure to understand the CFM produced and at what air pressure! That's the most important metric of a good compressor!


Build some nice solid steel tables
Tubing bender - most likely JD2 but open to suggestions
Tubing notcher - not sure what brand
Plasma cutter

I RARELY use my Plasma Cutter - so far it's a waste of money.


Belt/Disc sander

TIG - I have no idea how to use it but really want to learn....

TIG is a must in my shop! Once you TIG you'll rarely MIG



Some kind of crane system in the shop to keep from getting more hernia's


I use chain hoists and the cheap furniture dollies from Harbor freight -- and I use my engine hoist for all manor of moving stuff!



Lathe - thinking 6"x 3ft or so
Mill - either small bench top or used large one

My Mill/Drill (Jet) is used all the time. I'm not MAKING parts -- I'm modifying them. While I'd love a real Milling machine -- it's just because I want one - not because it would get used.


Stomp Shear - used 3 ft or so
Decent bead roller
Metal Bandshaw

Don't wimp out on Bandsaw! I bought a Wilton -- it was a POS... finally bought a good one from Baileigh Industrial and now think about all the time I wasted trying to baby the Wilton POS along.



Dimple dies
Smaller metal break


Make sure it's a BOX AND PAN brake...



Lift - Possibly, debating if it will take too much room


Without a doubt - the single most used piece of equipment in my shop! Saves time - saves effort - makes me WANT to do things on the car - and I can do them BETTER than laying on the floor rolling around on a creeper! Once you own one you'll never work on a car without one again.




Smaller CNC Plasma table - thinking could also use to make some side $$

It will never happen. Don't bother.



English wheel
Planishing hammer
Shrinker/Stretcher
Alignment tools

Toe plates can be made... I just had the Mustang aligned and set up at a pro NASCAR race shop -- two things I noticed! They DO NOT USE AIR TOOLS -- and the alignment was all done by hand with simple tools and tape measures etc. Not a laser in the house... They had a bump steer gauge... Toe plates... and some other simple gauges.

Race scales
???????

[Graham08]

Hi! This is my first post here...been lurking for a while. Great site!

Anyway, I've been heavily into fabrication and have been collecting tools and equipment for about 12 years or so. Mostly I build pavement sprint cars and supermodifieds. You have a great list of stuff there. A few things I've learned and would probably do differently if I had to to do it all over again are:

1. You can fabricate almost anything in the way of brackets with a drill press, vertical band saw, and a belt grinder. A drill press was one of the first pieces of equipment I bought, and I have had a couple since. I tried only having a milling machine for a while when I downsized to an attached garage, and I work a lot better having both. When you just want to poke a hole in something, or you're doing second ops like reaming or countersinking a drill press is much faster than doing multiple setups in the mill for simple stuff.

I have a Kalamazoo 2" x 48" belt grinder, and I should have bought it long before I did. It's no Burr King, but it is a quality piece that I use pretty much every time I'm in the shop.

I also have an old Walker-Turner 16" metal cutting vertical band saw. Again, it was something I should have bought long before I did. This greatly simplifies making tabs and brackets.

2. You're right on the air compressor. It opens a lot of doors up in terms of using air tools. My bender is air over hydraulic, and having the right compressor makes it so much nicer to use. I have 5 HP Champion that puts out something like 19 cfm at 90 psi. I don't have to wait for the compressor to catch up when running the bender anymore!

3. The bender and notcher sort of go together. JD2 makes nice stuff. I had a manual Model 3, and upgraded to a Model 4 when I was doing a bunch of bending 2" x 0.120" DOM for paying work. Definitely look at a hydraulic upgrade because you can put your bender on wheels instead of having it bolted to the floor. If you can afford it, an electric/hydraulic setup is really nice, but if you have a good compressor, the air/hydraulic system works well, too.

I've had a couple different notchers. My current setup is Baileigh's TN-250. I really like it. It has done everything I've asked of it and works great if you're doing a lot of notching around bends.

3. I made a lot of stuff with a 9" South Bend lathe. They're still out there for reasonable prices, and are about the smallest "real" machine I've run into. I later upgraded to a 13" Sheldon, which mostly gained me speed because it's a more powerful, rigid machine. A lathe would probably be my first addition after the band saw/drill press/belt grinder combo if I was doing things over because there's always something round that needs a hole in it and the ends square to the sides.

4. As far as sheet metal equipment goes, I made a lot of stuff with a set of Milwaukee electric hand shears and a 3' Harbor Freight brake. I later added a 4' x 14 gauge Chicago box and pan brake (well used) that was a major improvement in capabilities. After I finished building my new shop, I lucked into the right deal on an 8' x 18 gauge Niagara jump shear. If you're looking to get a shear, don't get anything shorter than 4 feet. Sheet metal normally comes in 4' wide sheets and one of the handiest things about a shear is the ability to cut large sheets down to a manageable size...which you can't do with a three footer.

5. I got a lift in a trade, and I wasn't real wild about it. Man was I wrong! Definitely one of the handiest things in my shop. I have a two post Eagle that needs nearly all of my 13' ceiling height. There are tons of lift discussions over on Garage Journal.

Good luck with your purchases, and congrats on the new shop! Sounds like you need to consider an addition.

[gerno]

Greg - Thanks for the feedback as always. Which Baileigh bandsaw did you get? What I had before was a Mill/drill and it was very nice for modifying as you said. Which Jet do you have?


Graham08 - Thanks for the solid first post with details. Very helpful response.

[mach1stang]

In such a small space it sounds like you'll be filled to the gills quick. I'd try and make as much stuff mobile as you can and stick to the bare essentials. My shop is 1500 sqft and with just one car and a two post lift I feel cramped at times.

[GregWeld]

Greg - Thanks for the feedback as always. Which Baileigh bandsaw did you get? What I had before was a Mill/drill and it was very nice for modifying as you said. Which Jet do you have?


The Jet Mill/Drill is their JMD-18

22OV single phase - R8 Taper which is real common for tooling.


The Baileigh band saw is their BSV-12 -- a 220V single phase 12" vertical band saw.

I also own a Baileigh Cold Cut Saw - CS350 -- 14" blade 220V single phase machine - which is why I didn't get the larger band saw from them.

By the way -- the handiest - easiest to use cutting tool I have in the shop which in my opinion is a must own that you left off your list is a BEVERLY SHEAR... I have their #2 (the 1 is too small and the 3 too big).





Graham08 - Thanks for the solid first post with details. Very helpful response.

In such a small space it sounds like you'll be filled to the gills quick. I'd try and make as much stuff mobile as you can and stick to the bare essentials. My shop is 1500 sqft and with just one car and a two post lift I feel cramped at times.



Totally agree with this statement! You can have so much crap in your shop that you can't do any work! Better to have some basics that are "multi function" tools. Since your time is FREE... you can cut something "rough" and finish it to spec... So a good metal chop saw (abrasive or carbide blade) that is portable would be a good choice for the occasional tubing cut etc. Versus a cold cut saw that is big and heavy - not to mention expensive. Owning a great piece of gear such as odd shapes/sheet metal/tubes/squares/odd angles.

Give me a great compressor.... and plenty of air tools!

A great belt "grinder/sander" that can really hog off some metal -- or change the belt and do fine work...

A vertical band saw (with POWER!)

A two post lift.

A great welder (MIG is all that's really needed)

A "Raptor" style chop saw.

A great vise mounted to a heavy solid table

Ample hand tools. It's amazing what some simple files can do when used properly. And a guy can never own too many clamping devices.

A good press

Air over Hydraulic engine hoist

Chain hoist

Rachet straps and lots of zip ties (spare hands I call them)

An inventory of common nuts and bolts (in SS and grade 8 or 9) and electrical connectors and spools of wire.


I find I need lots of ways to make holes.... sometimes in thick wall stuff - most times in sheet metal. tiny holes and big holes... so I have a tool for just about every way imaginable. Multiple sets of great drill bits - step drills - rotobroaches - hole saws... and multiple ways to chuck all of 'em up - angle drills - 1/4" drill motors (air) and 1/2" motors... drill press and mill drill...

I need multiple ways to cut things... at odd ass angles --- or dead straight... on the car or off the car. Sheet metal to 4" square or sometimes small solids. Sometimes I bust out the sawzall... sometimes the plasma (rarely) -- or maybe a pair of left, right or straight tin snips... sometimes the bandsaw. The cold cut saw is used more to build jigs or things that help me work or store stuff.

As long as I can weld something together... we're golden! The MIG is the most adaptable... and the most bang for the buck. A TIG (My preferred way to weld) is expensive and a luxury. Not needed but coveted. And I need a gas (oxy/acetylene) welder/torch to heat things (I never weld with it but occasionally braze with it).


I could not function without a great work table that's heavy and solid! And a great BIG vise...

[Vegas69]

A really comfy chair so I can day dream about all that work I used to do in there. :relax:

[GregWeld]

A really comfy chair so I can day dream about all that work I used to do in there. :relax:




So f'n boring..... LOL

[gerno]

In such a small space it sounds like you'll be filled to the gills quick. I'd try and make as much stuff mobile as you can and stick to the bare essentials. My shop is 1500 sqft and with just one car and a two post lift I feel cramped at times.

It's not the largest space but certainly much larger than the 2 car garage I share with my neighbor at the duplex I'm living at now. I actually use my car hauler as a shop and storage space right now because I have zero room. Prior to my current place I had a loaded 2 car garage. At least the new place will have a place to build a car and a separate place to store it when complete.




I appreciate all the input. Hopefully all goes well with the purchase and soon I'll start laying out the space. Only thing I'm waiting on is an inspection by an electrician on Saturday. If he says all is good I'll be closing shortly after.

[Sieg]

Vertical storage, ceiling racks, high wall shelves, etc. You can't have too much. All the incidental sundries that go with this hobby consume a lot of space. Many items may only be used a few time in a year and they require space.

You have square feet of floor space but you also have the multiplier of cubic feet for overall space, use it wisely. Storage boxes cataloged like file cabinet drawers saves search time. :thumbsup:

[MeanMike]

I have all the shop equipment I want for now. I can make just about anything I need. I ocassionally have parts laser or water jet cut at a local steel supplier.

Bridgeport Mill
13x36 clausing lathe
14" Wilton Vertical Bandsaw
4" x 6" harbor freight horizontal bandsaw
HTP 221 Invertig
OA torch set
Parts Washer
48" 16 gauge sheetmetal brake
cheapo drill press
Kalamazoo 2" belt grinder
30 ton h frame press
Harbor Frieght tool and cutter grinder for lathe tools
Craftsman and Kennedy stack for machinist tools
Snap On box for mechanics tools
Workbench with partial steel plate for welding
Lot's of storage shelves

I have all this crammed into a large two car garage along with my car. It's cramped, but it forces me to keep it clean and I can only focus on one car at a time.

[mach1stang]

Like weld said, if its just a hobby shop just to the essentials and get creative with it lol. I'm saving up for my BS-250 bandsaw but for the time being I'm kicking right along with just a portaband and a steady hand with the grinder. It may be a little slow and not PERFECT but it gets the job done.

Stick to a good welder, mitering headed bandsaw, grinder, drill press, and a sweet sweet welding/fab table till you see it absolutely necessary for something like a space eating sheet metal brake or stomp shear and stuff of that nature.

[GregWeld]

We all want ALL the stuff.... but the reality is SPACE/MONEY/USE.

I have zillions of dollars invested in tools -- some are rarely if ever used. Some I wish I had more of. More talent to use some that I have. More projects to utilize what I do have.

Some tools to do specific jobs cost serious money. Sometimes I ask myself if I just want the tool - will I use it much beyond the current need - and what if I don't buy the tool and just have someone else make the part for me. Or better yet - make it another way. I usually end up making it another way.

Here's the one thing I will add - once you have lots of tools. I never look at a project and start to think how I was going to make something. I look at the situation and just ask myself how I WANT to make "it". Before having lots of tools there were limitations and I'd have to fuss around trying to make do with what I had.

There is no question in my mind that having a minimum amount of skill - but having the right tools to do the job - increases your "skills". The job will turn out better... But for many people -- you have to ask yourself how many cars do you really intend to build?? One? Three? Unlimited? When you're done with the car you're working on now -- what's next? Do you have the budget to build another? Improve what you did already? Help your buddies build theirs? It wouldn't be much fun to own kool tools if there's nothing to do with them.

I'd like to have a pro planishing hammer and english wheel and maybe a shrinker/stretcher... so let's call that 10 grand. Why don't I have them already? Because I've found that I'm not really building "bodies". I'm doing patch panels... and I can build some pretty decent patch panels with a beater bag and some hammers and some time. Anything more than that will be pro built.

The cars I've built or worked on -- generally have been the "popular" models. I can buy most any panel on the car - use what I need of the panel or use the whole piece (floors - firewalls - quarters etc). I'm not building a complete over the top custom everything car. I've bent sheet metal tranny tunnels over a gas bottle laying on it's side.... I really didn't need a slip roller... The crap I'm doing is going to be carpeted anyway.

I've also found suppliers for all the little tabs and brackets and suspension parts that I've ever needed. I might have to "mod" them.... and that's where the good belt grinder or some other tool comes into play... But I didn't have to make the actual brackets. I might have had to buy a bracket for something "else" and just whack and finish off the part that I need for my intended purpose.

Where I've "invested" in tools --- has been more in the QUALITY of the tools I have bought. A cold cut saw needs different blades for the metal being cut - Stainless requires a blade change as does Aluminum etc. I have multiple blades for my band saw - depending on the cut being made. I have different bottles of gas for the MIG -- tri mix for SS... that sort of thing. If I didn't own a TIG - I might have a spool gun for aluminum... and even today -- If I need something super fancy that is going to show - I'll take that to a pro shop. I'm a really good welder - but I don't do it enough/often enough or upsidedown and backwards that I can make it look "pro". I admit that - and just hustle it off to someone that can. It's rarely more than $100 and usually more like 40 or 50.

Ditto stomping cut sheet. I find I can get what I need for a "cut fee" right at the shop I buy my supplies from. They have a water jet and a plasma... since I have a great belt machine - and a plasma - and all kinds of hand grinders etc - I'll try to make the piece on my own first. If it's super critical - then I'll order it water jetted and just suck up the set up fee. Fortunately I'm friends with lots of hot rod shops in my area (before I moved) and then would always be willing to help me when I got into trouble. Buying the whole shop pizza for lunch on Fridays was way cheaper than buying a tool I'd rarely use.

I'm fortunate enough to be able to buy any tool I'd ever need... and even I don't have some tools I'd just like to own. A lathe is one of them... I'd like one "just because" and I shop them all the time... But the 8 grand or so for the one I really would buy isn't worth the space or money for the twice per year use... and I've made it 40 years without one so far so why do I think I really "need one" now. It's what keeps me from hitting the buy it button. Ditto the $8000 dollar Kaesar screw compressor I did buy... but was able to cancel - when the electrician told me I'd have a minimum monthly electric bill for the 3 phase 408V service needed to run the one I had on order. Even I think that's a pretty dumb waste of money. I have a great compressor -- I just WANT a screw compressor - with air dryer... but I don't need it at all.

If Gaetano (Track Junky) was closer to me -- since he needed a new compressor -- I'd have ordered a new one just so I could give him my old one... that's usually how I end up "upgrading" stuff.

[gerno]

I went to the property again today for the electrical inspection. A few small issues but overall it looks good. Looking at the shop space again it can see how small it really is. Having all the tools in the world and no place for a car is just as bad as not having a shop at all. I certainly need to prioritize my tools. I appreciate everyone's comments and suggestions. I don't move in until dec due to a lease back since the guy needs lots of time to get his stuff out. Once I get moved in and the space layed out I'll post some pics

[DBasher]

Besides the tools, make sure you've got the place lit well and enough power where you need it. Makes working in the space that much better.

:cheers:
Dan

[gerno]

Does anyone have an opinion on a portable 2 post lift like this one? It scares me a bit given the 2 posts are not connected any way but I like the ability to store it away if needed.

http://www.dannmar.com/dannmar-products/two-post-lifts/maxjax.asp

[mach1stang]

I have no experience with a portable two post I just have a two post. But I will say this from experience... Think the lift out long and hard before pulling the trigger! A lift, even a two post takes up a lot of space when not in use! Another thing is the practicality of one. I have a two post lift and it really doesn't get a whole lot of use, just because it can be time consuming to get a car on the lift to do a quick job. My boss sits 3.5"s off the ground at the rockers and it easily takes 30-45 minutes to get it on my lift and I've done it several times so when it comes to doing oil changes and even small suspension and exhaust work is just done on jack stands and the ground cuz it's quicker. If I could build my shop over again I'd put my lift and bay doors in another way or even pour a slab to put the lift outside to save floor space. Lifts are nice but definitely have their drawbacks.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[gerno]

I have no experience with a portable two post I just have a two post. But I will say this from experience... Think the lift out long and hard before pulling the trigger! A lift, even a two post takes up a lot of space when not in use! Another thing is the practicality of one. I have a two post lift and it really doesn't get a whole lot of use, just because it can be time consuming to get a car on the lift to do a quick job. My boss sits 3.5"s off the ground at the rockers and it easily takes 30-45 minutes to get it on my lift and I've done it several times so when it comes to doing oil changes and even small suspension and exhaust work is just done on jack stands and the ground cuz it's quicker. If I could build my shop over again I'd put my lift and bay doors in another way or even pour a slab to put the lift outside to save floor space. Lifts are nice but definitely have their drawbacks.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk


I understand what you are saying about the lift. I agree with the space vs usage consideration. Last weekend I really could have used a lift when pulling the trans out of my car on the jack stands. I'm hoping the portable lift is a good mix to use when I need it.




I closed on the house/shop yesterday. The seller is leasing back for the next month or so. Hopefully soon I'll be in there and able to start getting things planned out. I asked him if he wanted to leave his vertical CNC burntable and for some reason he wanted to take it with him....what a jerk... :headscratch:

[mach1stang]

It's funny this topic comes up around this time, me and my soon to be wife are looking for a place with some land so we can build a house and shop and she asked me yesterday "where in the world are you gonna keep all this stuff till we get a new shop built!?!?" and my only response was I have no idea lol!

[gerno]

I get possession of the new place next week and have already started my tool search based on feedback here. When I get access I'll send out some pics.

First purchase will be a compressor. I was thinking about this one. Any feedback from you guys?


http://www.aircompressorsdirect.com/Ingersoll-Rand-2475N7.5-FP-Air-Compressor/p769.html

I'm also curious what the difference is between fully packaged vs the standard compressor. I'll be asking the company selling it as well but thought I'd ask here too

http://www.aircompressorsdirect.com/Ingersoll-Rand-2475N7.5-Air-Compressor/p707.html

[GregWeld]

The more expensive version has an automatic drain (good!) and an air to air after cooler (also good)...


Either one has AMPLE CFM flow at good pressure... and either one would last you a lifetime.

[RDuke]

Do some searches over on garagejournal forum. I recall reading a few in depth threads a while back about some of the IR pumps having issues on some of the mid and lower end models. I don't recall specifics though. I think there was a lot of praise for Quincy and Champion. Something I bookmarked a few years ago for reference: http://www.tptools.com/Air-Compressors.html

I get possession of the new place next week and have already started my tool search based on feedback here. When I get access I'll send out some pics.

First purchase will be a compressor. I was thinking about this one. Any feedback from you guys?


http://www.aircompressorsdirect.com/Ingersoll-Rand-2475N7.5-FP-Air-Compressor/p769.html

I'm also curious what the difference is between fully packaged vs the standard compressor. I'll be asking the company selling it as well but thought I'd ask here too

http://www.aircompressorsdirect.com/Ingersoll-Rand-2475N7.5-Air-Compressor/p707.html

[gerno]

I still haven't pulled the trigger on a compressor. I also saw some comments on the quality of the low/mid tier IR's. Seems the garage journal people like FS-Curtis, Champion and Quincy but it's hard to say. I'm not in a rush so I'm going to think a bit more.


The good news is that I finally have the place and am getting all moved in. The place is much smaller with a car but still better than anything I've had in the past. Especially considering I also have a 2 car garage not shown. Working with the grass in front of the shop vs concrete may prove interesting but I'm thinking of a few solutions. I wish the enclosed patio was a bit deeper to park some cars easier but it's still a very interesting area to hang out. To the right of the shop is also another outbuilding where the compressor will be. I didn't take pics of it.

Biggest problem so far is the driveway in the front. I didn't notice how steep it was in combination with the crest of the road. I'm scraping the hell out of the car hauler getting it in and out. Seems a small tractor, a custom built tug (perhaps with a small flatbed and hoist for moving heavy things to the shop??) or regrading the drive is going to be necessary. I'll post more about that stuff in the shop section.

51850

51851

51852

51853

51854

51855

51856

51857

[Sieg]

After months of contemplation I've decided that the tool I need most is space......your patio looks like a solution for the future. :)

[KPC67]

I still haven't pulled the trigger on a compressor. I also saw some comments on the quality of the low/mid tier IR's. Seems the garage journal people like FS-Curtis, Champion and Quincy but it's hard to say. I'm not in a rush so I'm going to think a bit more.


The good news is that I finally have the place and am getting all moved in. The place is much smaller with a car but still better than anything I've had in the past. Especially considering I also have a 2 car garage not shown. Working with the grass in front of the shop vs concrete may prove interesting but I'm thinking of a few solutions. I wish the enclosed patio was a bit deeper to park some cars easier but it's still a very interesting area to hang out. To the right of the shop is also another outbuilding where the compressor will be. I didn't take pics of it.

Biggest problem so far is the driveway in the front. I didn't notice how steep it was in combination with the crest of the road. I'm scraping the hell out of the car hauler getting it in and out. Seems a small tractor, a custom built tug (perhaps with a small flatbed and hoist for moving heavy things to the shop??) or regrading the drive is going to be necessary. I'll post more about that stuff in the shop section.

51850

51851

51852

51853

51854

51855

51856

51857

Looks great. what if you did cement or pavement in front of your new garage?

After months of contemplation I've decided that the tool I need most is space......your patio looks like a solution for the future. :)

That is a true story Sieg! can't work on the projects without "your space"

[gerno]

You can work on them but in general it sucks and it's tough to do quality work. At least that's what I found.

There is potential to do something with the patio I just need to figure it out. I think a lean to on the back for solvent tank, blaster and press might not be bad either. I'll figure it out once I start laying things out.

I could add concrete but I like having a yard too. More than me, my mutt in the pic likes the yard since he's a crack head for fetch.


Back to the tool discussion. I was checking out compressors again and came across the Eaton compressors. The specs for the 2 stage 3 or 4 cyl models look very good for the $$. Anyone have personal experience with one?

[rickpaw]

Nice place you have there, Steve.

[GregWeld]

The new place looks absolutely awesome Steve! Holy cow!


Add some "bogey wheels" to the hauler... they don't just have to be added at the rear - you could add a couple pair where needed. The other thing that would be cheap and easy is to add some skid strips of wood or plastic where the witness marks are on the bottom of the trailer, and at least give it a softer surface to scrape on.

[gerno]

Nice place you have there, Steve.

Thanks. Once it's more setup and your back in this part of the state you'll have to stop by.

The new place looks absolutely awesome Steve! Holy cow!


Add some "bogey wheels" to the hauler... they don't just have to be added at the rear - you could add a couple pair where needed. The other thing that would be cheap and easy is to add some skid strips of wood or plastic where the witness marks are on the bottom of the trailer, and at least give it a softer surface to scrape on.

Thanks for the complement. I hope I can get it setup as as nice as you've gotten yours. Though I imagine I will be on 1/4th the budget at most.

I was looking into adding some wheels. I'm headed to the local trailer supply today to see what they have. I want to at least add them to the front and rear first to protect the alumn side panels. If I need more I can go from there. Trailer has small skid plates on the back but they are certainly not big enough

[GregWeld]

You may have to add "helper bags" -- air them up - get in or out of the driveway - and then air em down.... I guess it just depends on how many times you're hauling stuff and how bad it drags.

[gerno]

You may have to add "helper bags" -- air them up - get in or out of the driveway - and then air em down.... I guess it just depends on how many times you're hauling stuff and how bad it drags.

I thought about that too. One time I got it in without too much drag. The next time I was leaving and the tires were 1 ft off the ground....NOT GOOD. It's going to take some practice to figure out how to get it in there. I'll start adding the wheels and spend a little time working on the approach angles. My neighbors are going to realize I'm nuts....

I still like the idea to build a little tug on a square tube chassis with a hydraulic hitch. I can also put a little flat bed on it with a hoist for moving equipment to the back. Sounds like a fun little project where I can start to improve my welding before tackling a cage in my car or something of the like. It's probably cheaper to pick up a cheap used compact tractor but that doesn't sounds as fun

[gerno]

These are the Eaton compressors I was looking at. All look like beasts for the money. Only issue I see so far is delivery which is ~ $550 additional. Anyone have feedback on any models?

I was focusing more on the first 2 but I suppose the last one may work. The only drawback would be if I want to sand blast. It seems a pressure pot blaster runs at 25cfm @ 125psi. It would be rare to use it, but I do use the bead baster a lot. I don't know the CFM for the bead blaster.

http://www.eatoncompressor.com/catalog/item/504747/10086612.htm

http://www.eatoncompressor.com/catalog/item/504747/1710568.htm

http://www.eatoncompressor.com/catalog/item/504747/9380988.htm

[carbuff]

I could add concrete but I like having a yard too. More than me, my mutt in the pic likes the yard since he's a crack head for fetch.

You can say that again! That dog wears me out when I come visit. :)