metal shrinking

Working on the box sides for the 54, sides were bowed out ahead of the fenders quite a bit. Was going to try to hammer it all out and fill it, but thought I would research heat and quench metal shrinking. It sounded relatively easy, but not without challenges, so I tried it...... For a 3rd grade educated idiot I must say that I did pretty good. It looks a lot better, so I'll stick a little putty on it and smooth it out.

I love metal work. I have been wanting to try one of these disk. You can get them through Eastwood.

I just used a propane torch - you know, one of those little hardware store bottles with the clicker starter torch tip. Doesn't take long. Articles I read stated that the old iron is much easier to shrink, because the newer stuff is all hi strength steel and has a lot more carbon in it.

I have used the torch before. It works very well. Matters who you talk to if they agree with the heating of metal but I find it works well.

A shrinking disc works by only heating the high/stretched spots making it more efficient. A torch tends to spread the heat too much.

Well howdie Bill! I thought of you when this post come up.

Hey Steve. I still lurk the forums, I just don't post a whole lot anywhere. I did see your driveshaft thread on the HAMB. I have a 2pc. shaft from my Suburban that I'm scrapping if you could use any of it. The center support bearing is trash bit the coupler is still good.

I've got it figured out now. I was half asleep and my mind wasn't working right. I was over thinking it. I guess I got a little bitter on there but it's the same thing everytime someone post something. "do a search"

Ton of smart people on there but there's always a smart (beep) too.

Might not be the place, but sorry for your lost bill.....

Thank you.