Rolling a beaded edge

[jamlit]

I want to know how to create a rolled edge on some sheet metal.

Can someone show me the best way and what I need to do it.

Thanks

[David Gardiner]

What do you mean by a rolled edge? do you mean a wired edge?

David

[jamlit]

Sorry

My 28 fenders have the edges rolled like a bead. Makes a nice rounded edge. I would love to be able to do this.

[John Buchtenkirch]

Originally Posted by jamlit

Sorry

My 28 fenders have the edges rolled like a bead. Makes a nice rounded edge. I would love to be able to do this.

Fords had wired fender edges up to and including 1934, after that they went to a rolled edge without the wire. ~ John Buchtenkirch

[Joe Hartson]

If this is what you are talking about it is called a wire edge. The edge of the metal is formed into a "U" shape, a wire is inserted and then the proper amount of metal is formed around the wire to enclose the wire and hold the wire in place. This makes the edge of the panel very strong.

[TheRodDoc]

And if you mean rolled without a wire in it, Called a false wire edge, It is done with shapped dollies and hammer.

I don't make any smaller then 1/4" dia. This method is for that size and bigger.

For smaller I just fold over the edge aginst it self.

I made a special smaller hammer with the closing shape ground on one end. Could be done with a shapped punch too but then takes a helper to hold sheet.

falsewireedge.jpg

[Kerry Pinkerton]

Great post Richard.

[jamlit]

Wow Richard that is an awesome setup but man it must take awhile to do. I am looking at making some tins for a bike and wanted to roll the edge like you are showing. I know that there wasn't any wire in the pieces I have but it also is a great idea and I will keep it in mind.

Do they sell the tools like you have shown here Richard. I would be interested in looking at them.

Thanks for the input guys

[TheRodDoc]

You have to make them. Just a wire or rod that fits the id of the roll you want to make welded to the end of a piece of steel bar for the inside dollie. And A block of steel that you drill a hole into the center and then cut away the unwanted part for the closing dollie.

Same with the punch. drill and cut. Hammer, round file to make notch and narrow head side ways. Or end mill if you have one.

[acourtjester]

Hi
here is a video on how to make a wire edge.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FuILLaFSLNI

have fun
Tom