Clamping fixture

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I have been needing something to hold odd shaped parts while welding so I came up with this idea. If anyone would have been watching while I tried to hold that aluminum step in position to weld it would have had a good laugh. Sorta reminded me of watching two monkeys trying to have sex with a football.I used one inch balls (you need big balls) tried 1/2 inch but not enough clamping pressure to hold heavier pieces. I drilled out the straps with a 1 inch bit to make a cradle for the balls and a 5/16 bolt and spacer. I used both 1/4 and 5/16th bolts to screw into the adjusting screws to fit 4 and 6 inch vise grips. I used a grounding magnet for one side and would like to find another like it but have no idea where I even got this one its been in the bottom of my welding box for years. It would give me a good connection from both sides when holding. Anyhow thought I would post it in case anyone might be interested. Attached Images
Reply:Nice work Rolland neat idea!! Thanx for sharing I need to get some of them made..  my wife is my xtra helping hand now.. gotta be careful not to upset the cook lol I think it has something to do with sparks and instant hi freq tan lines
Reply:Great idea. Now it has become something else I think I need.We are on our way to being farmers! Our site is always under construction so check back often for updates.  http://www.philosophyfarmstyle.com/
Reply:Great design. Thanks for sharing this will help me.
Reply:I got some big balls, at the wrought iron store but they are thin walled.  You might be able to find some big ball bearings at the hardware store that will work.
Reply:Enco sells carbon steel balls $15-16  for 25@ plus shipping and handling
Reply:handy tool to have!Is there something like this commercially?  If not, you should start making them for sale, good idea.Buy American, or don't whine when you end up on the bread line.
Reply:Originally Posted by WeldingMachinehandy tool to have!Is there something like this commercially?  If not, you should start making them for sale, good idea.
Reply:Before I saw the last post, I was going to suggest mounting the ViseGrips in way shown in the Grayson Tool pic. I wouldn't want to have to move the ViseGrip to alter the clamping pressure. I am going to steal ideas from both models, but will use the big jaw clamps, "Lobster claw"  looking things.  Thanks.Just my  opinion, not from a book, just from the road.Howes Welding Inc.www.howesweldinginc.com
Reply:you dont have to loosen the clamping pressure on the vise grips to move it, just loosen the bolt and rotate it on the balls. I use my vise grips for other things and am too cheep to buy an extra set for the clamps so I didnt want to weld them to the arm. But it is another idea for the fixture. either way would work fine.
Reply:Hear is the  magnet that i would use https://www.weldingweb.com/images/attach/png.gif Attached Images