Lhorn said:
I feel like a shrinking disk is gonna be my best/cheapest option but had a few questions:
Anyone try the $38 dollar Ebay shrinking disks? Would they work as well as the ones from Sunchaser or Eastwood?
Do srinking hammers and dollys work? How well?
Other than and OA torch, what else can you use to heat the metal? Would a propane torch like you'd use to solder copper joints get hot enough?
Thanks.
I LOVE my Shrinking Disc-I bought mine form John Kelly (a Member here), and it has been great. I understand the ones from Sunchaser are good, but I don't think they have the safety edge and are rippled. I would definitely agree on Proshaper Tools, Wray Schelin is a pioneer (as well as John), and makes good stuff.
Shrinking Hammers (haven't seen a Shrinking Dolly) actually do damage to a Panel because they shrink by making mini-distortions-I guess that's o.k. if you are going to Bondo over it, but I would use a Shrinking Disc instead of a Shrinking Hammer anyday-you can keep a Panel smooth. If you are making a Patch Panel, and need to shrink, you could also consider using a Tucking Fork. If you are simply straightening Panels I would (again) use a Shrinking Disc.
Torches will certainly shrink, but I have a problem controlling them to get the shrink exactly where I want it- a Disc will act like a Block Sander-it will flatten controllably, and you can even make a reverse curve if shrank enough. One last thing-if you do buy a Shrinking Disc, and have turned off the Grinder letting the Disc slow down, be certain to leave it on the Panel until the Disc stops-don't ask me how I know- :sweat:
By the way, you haven't told us what you are trying to do?
