Tool Size?

[huzilulu]

I am building up my tool set for the upcoming build, and had a quick question:

1) What is the thickness of the ally panels? I am looking at a couple different air nibblers, and they have different applications: some only upto 12 gauge, while others are 16 gauge.. How thick is the ally, and what kind of nibbler will work well?

2) What are the sizes for the countersunk bits that will be needed?

Thanks

[F.C.]

Quite sufficient as Mr Rolls would say

[UltimaCH]

I have a nibbler and never used it so far. A good set of files is sufficient IMO.

[sukhjeevan]

Forget the nibbler. A good hacksaw and a set of files is all you need.

[UltimaFAN]

I didn't like cutting the alu with electric tools either as it is very soft, bended in some locations and we need to cut it with small radius. My best experience was reached with metal scissors (picture below), cutting 1-4mm away, then to finish the part with a good set of new files.

[Pedders]

Well, it just goes to show - different folks, different strokes! I personally found the air-nibbler a fantastic tool for helping with the aluminium panelling, and would definitely recommend it.

I'll check the thickness of the aluminium panels later today, if nobody posts sooner, but don't think you need anything particularly heavy duty - I bought a cheapo nibbler off ebay and it's done all my panelling no bother.

[Corsair613]

I use manual shears (both left & right cutting) almost everywhere, then finish with files and fine emery cloth. Various areas also get a touch from a sanding drum. For small areas a small drum is mounted in a Dremel, for larger ones a bigger drum is mounted in a die grinder.

I'm also a great proponent of medium grade Scotchbrite, both in pad and wheel forms. Nothing beats it for quickly smoothing an edge.

FWIW, I only used my pneumatic nibbler for a couple of the long, straight cuts in the floor panel double skin (around the pedal area).

Lots of ways to skin this particular cat.

Ken

[GT40LS7]

Dear folks

I always cut the panel with a dremel and a metallic disc even for a long cut, if you use a guide you can have a very good precision.

And if you want a better finish, you can use sand paper glued on a solid and long plywood, to smooth the cut as needed.

J

[Pedders]

It's 1.5mm thick.

[huzilulu]

Thanks everyone!!