What are the must haves for you're shop?
 

Fixing to get a shop built (Strictly a shop) and was wondering what you're must have equipment is for you're shop. I have a twin cyl compressor, 50amp Lincoln Mig, Logan Lathe, Drill press, bench grinder, parts cleaner, all the air tools. Am looking to have a lift installed, media blast cabinet, hydraulic press..... SO what else???

Re: What are the must haves for you're shop?
 

Milling machine is really handy. I use mine more than my lathe. You will find the blast cabinet is really great to have. Makes old rusty parts look like new.

Re: What are the must haves for you're shop?
 

The only "must have" thing for my shop is a 'project', after that any thing to do the project is acquired as needed.

Re: What are the must haves for you're shop?
 

Only a 50 amp MIG? really :confused:

Re: What are the must haves for you're shop?
 

What a coincidence! I just now got off the phone with a guy who wants me to set up his '32 helmet distributor.

If you had a Sun machine in your shop, you could pick up a few bucks from this guy. (I'll pass your name on to him if you want.)

Re: What are the must haves for you're shop?
 

Hoop
I wouldn't have anything to do with that guy!!!! Why do you think I'm setting up my own shop?? Lol. I guess I am gonna have to start looking for a machine like yours.....BUT then I'll have to pester you to show me how to use it!!!!

Re: What are the must haves for you're shop?
 

I have NO shortage of those @ 51 Merc. I have 6 major ones in waiting and at least 3 semi-major ones and one or two I'm not sure if they are worth the effort. And one that's a more "modern" project!!!

Re: What are the must haves for you're shop?
 

Some years back a member posted a pic of his project. in the corner was a urinal.

Re: What are the must haves for you're shop?
 

If I had to re-plan my shop over again, I think I would include some means/provisions for a paint booth. Maybe not a permanent booth or even a full size booth, but at least somewhere to be able to spray moderate sized items (wheels, engine blocks, etc) without having to worry about over spray or the weather outside. I will say (and you've included it on your list) that the item I am MOST thankful for is the 2 post lift. This has made life so much easier from everything as simple as changing tires to as cumbersome as removing bodies. It's a definite must have!

Re: What are the must haves for you're shop?
 

My shop needs this:

Re: What are the must haves for you're shop?
 

A lift, the older I get the more I like it! But then MIG & TIG & Gas, lath, and on and on, LOL.

Re: What are the must haves for you're shop?
 

The must have in my shop is an overhead monorail with trolley carrying a chain block

Re: What are the must haves for you're shop?
 

Re: What are the must haves for you're shop?
 

Beer and a fire extinguisher first aid kit

Re: What are the must haves for you're shop?
 

Assuming you have a huge budget, I'll give this a try:

1. two post lift
2. 250 amp Mig Welder
3. TIG welder
4. Overhead chain hoist
5. Cherry picker
6. All hand tools of course wrenches/ratchets/sockets included
7. Two stage air compressor
8. refrigerated air dryer
9. large bench vice
10. Oxy/Acetylene torch outfit.
11. 3.5 inch angle grinder
12. air impact
13. air ratchet
14. large media blast cabinet
15. Parts washer
16. Professional spray wash cabinet
17. really good lighting
18. heat
19. dozens of miscellaneous small tools & power tools
20. orbital sander
21. air file/sander
22. body hammers and tools
23. Plasma Cutter
24. Stud gun/welder and puller

Re: What are the must haves for you're shop?
 

On summer days like today in Florida, an air-conditioned shop sounds mighty good. But, in reality, very few guys go that far.

Good ventilation IS a must ... good fans ... better yet a roll-around, evaporative "swamp cooler" can make a huge difference.

Re: What are the must haves for you're shop?
 

Beverly Shears. Ellis Saw, plasma cutter, mini fridge, internet access, wide screen,nice lounge chair (for contemplation)

Re: What are the must haves for you're shop?
 

Good insulation and real A/C. Swamp coolers put out a lot of humidity, plus don't work well when the air is humid to begin with. Build it bigger than you think you need!

Re: What are the must haves for you're shop?
 

Looks like Seth has done his homework. I'd add 4-5 angle grinders with an assortment of cutoff, flap and wire brush wheels. Saves time having to change things out between uses.
Just my 2¢. dw

Re: What are the must haves for you're shop?
 

Has anyone read about the latest in Loonyville (California)? Sacramento County is trying to outlaw anyone working on their own car in their own garage anywhere in the county! Minor things like change oil and brake pads will OK, but not much else.