what thickness steel for repairs?

[63C20]

I have an English wheel and a brake and plan to make most of my own patch panels but no idea what thickness
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[MARTINSR]

Well, if you are stepping up to the amazing world of metal fabrication the first thing you need to buy is this.



http://www.eastwood.com/sheet-metal-gauge.html

So you can find the gauge of the metal you are working near. I don't know your truck at all, but AD's were largely 18 gauge.

Brian

[63C20]

62 c20 hood

[MARTINSR]

Get a gauge and measure yours. You really need to get this gauge so you know. It's probably available at your local hardware store.

Brian

[MP&C]

Most automotive sheet metal from Detroit is 19 gauge steel. But as Brian suggested, measure it! If you know someone with machinist tools, a micrometer will tell you real quick what you need.

[MARTINSR]

Don't say "is" because it sure isn't today!


Brian

[sevt_chevelle]

I never cared for that gauge tool cause it takes its reading on the edge which can be distorted, contain a small burr, etc. Much preferred a micrometer and take a reading past the edge so you get a truer reading then what the edge says.

You'll want the cold rolled or mild steel section. An educated guess tells me it will be 19 ga and your local suppliers will either look at you funny or laugh when you ask for 19 ga.

[63C20]

the metal surrounding is rotten / compromised too so a gauge is USELESS..... thats why i asked....

[blazer2007]

I,ve been using 18 g. on mine is nice to shape and cut and welds nice.

[MARTINSR]

Originally Posted by 63C20

the metal surrounding is rotten / compromised too so a gauge is USELESS..... thats why i asked....

But you need to cut the rusted area out to replace it! You cut to a solid area, measure, make a new piece and weld it in to that solid area.

Brian

[Indian113]

I've found that when you start chasing that Rust it Runs on you! Funny how far you have to go to get to Solid sheet metal.

[cg285]

i'll also guess your original is 19ga cold rolled which is not usually readily available locally. i see no reason not to substitute locally available 20ga paint grip. there is less that 3thou difference in thickness.

[blazer2007]

Originally Posted by blazer2007

I,ve been using 18 g. on mine is nice to shape and cut and welds nice.

sorry was 20 G.