New Old Guy

[Tycho]

Good morning. I'm a retired helicopter mechanic. I've always had more interest in metal forming than talent but I'd like to change that through a few projects. I have plenty of hand tools and welding capability but have always stopped short of adding a few things I'd like to fiddle with now that I have some time. I'd like to make an English wheel for one in particular. I restored a '56 Austin Healey, did all the panel beating etc. and would like to fabricate an aluminum hard top for it. I've got the knowhow but never made a buck for something like this nor have I used a wheel for anything other than fooling around, never for a project that had to meet design criteria of fit and function. I'd love to see what other folks have done and glean whatever tips I can. I'm in Northern CA.

Jon R.

[crystallographic]

Originally Posted by Tycho

Good morning. I'm a retired helicopter mechanic. I've always had more interest in metal forming than talent but I'd like to change that through a few projects. I have plenty of hand tools and welding capability but have always stopped short of adding a few things I'd like to fiddle with now that I have some time. I'd like to make an English wheel for one in particular. I restored a '56 Austin Healey, did all the panel beating etc. and would like to fabricate an aluminum hard top for it. I've got the knowhow but never made a buck for something like this nor have I used a wheel for anything other than fooling around, never for a project that had to meet design criteria of fit and function. I'd love to see what other folks have done and glean whatever tips I can. I'm in Northern CA.

Jon R.

Hi Jon, Welcome to the forum.
Some aeroplane guys hang out here.