New guy from Canada
 

Hey Guys,
I have to admit I am more of a lurker than a contributer. I am very new to this and am trying hard to learn. I work as a mechanic and welder by day but love building hot rods in my spare time. I figure that learning to make my own panels helps the whole "I built everything myself" become a reality. So with that being said I look forward to learning this art form and hope to help contribute wherever I can.

Marc

Marc, welcome, thanks for the introduction. Welding sheet metal is a big part of making larger panels. Sheet metal welding is a little different than welding structural steel. There are some good threads on welding sheet metal on the site. Being able to do all of the work yourself is really nice. Thanks for joining us.

Hi Marc, I agree with Joe, being able to join two sections of panel together without causing lots of distortion is an important part of the process and it is the first thing I teach my students at college. Some shaping techniques can only be done once you have mastered getting a good joint. Dressing panels to a good finish is also important because it does not matter how nicely you shape a section if it is out of shape once it is welded in place. it is best to learn the fundamentals before getting into wheeling or any machines.

David

Welcome Mark!