Fabbing a 29 A coupe top panels??

[1927reocpe]

Has anyone fabbed up their own panels above the doors? if so what is the method you used?

[Barry B./ Ma.]

Roof panels should be readily available at flea markets or Berts in Denver. Is it a Special coupe (full leatherette top) or a standard metal top with vinyl insert? Just curious. Outside top sheet metal is the same but on the Special they used flat pieces around the back window.

[BRENT in 10-uh-C]

Sponsored Links (Register now to hide all advertisements)

I agree with Barry in what he says, but to answer the question for sake of provoking thought, I will tell you how we would approach fabricating this.

To start with, I would start by making a pattern either by using the damaged original or use masking tape to make a basis for your pattern. Use copy paper taped together and then use it to determine the shape of sheetmetal. Take note of any place where the paper ruffles or overlaps as you lay it flat on the panel. This will be areas that require shrinking later.

To induce the curved shape, we would use a Wheeling Machine (English Wheel) but the same think can be accomplished with a body hammer and a piece of pipe. Once the shape has been introduced, the ends (flanges) will need to be made. We would use a Tipping Wheel in a bead roller but the same can be accomplished by using a pair of pliers to begin the turn of the metal and then finish with a body hammer and a dolly. Along that flanged edge, shrinking will need to happen. We would use a Lancaster Shrinker because of time but using heat to shrink is another way to accomplish this. Even making a few 'pie cuts' and then rewelding is another way.

To create the area where the drip rails (gutter) would be we would create on a Pullmax reciprocating machine with a set of dies but again, we are doing this as a way to be productive and a time value but the shape can be 'turned' using a set of pliers or even a crescent wrench. Just turn the metal along a line in very small and increment steps. In other words, set a crescent wrench to just slip over the metal thickness. Go to the line with the end of the crescent wrench jaws and then bend the metal only about 5 degrees. Then move over ½ the distance of what you just bent the metal and repeat the procedure. Do this repeatedly until you have traveled the full length of the line. After completing the full length of the line, start over and turn (-bend) the 5 degree bent metal another 5 degrees where you now have the metal bent 10 degrees. You continue this process until you are at 90 degrees, -then you drop down to the next bend and start the process going the opposite direction. Once this is completed, you have a joggled edge.

The biggest issue I think most people struggle with in working sheetmetal is lack of patience & persistence. It is kinda like when we were typing our thesis paper in college on a typewriter. If you are old enough to recall this, you remember how when you made an error, you pretty much had to start over again. That often is how sheetmetal shaping is.