Re-purposed portable work bench

admin

I picked this workbench up at a yard sale for .50 cents.  The bamboo top was falling apart and they didn't clamp closed any more, but I just wanted the legs.  I took the top off and removed the screw clamps.  I reinforced the top with 1" square tube, then laid down 2 pieces of 16 gauge for a top.  After a fresh shot of spray paint it turned out pretty well.  Now I have a cheap portable metal top welding bench.What would you recommend as far as a coating for the top to keep it from rusting?  WD-40? Cooking oil? Attached Images
Reply:Great idea. I have one similar to that also from the thrift store. There is another wooden insert (sitting in the background) that goes between the jaws, which is probably why yours wouldn't close, Mine never works right, so maybe I should convert it to a portable table as you did.Last edited by smyrna5; 04-02-2009 at 06:04 PM.Lincoln 175HD Miller AC/DC ThunderboltSmith AW1, Dillion (Henrob) Mark III, & Smith LittleTorch
Reply:Hmm...  I like yours.  It seems taller and deeper, plus it's got that foot step too.  Go ahead and through a metal top on it.  That way you only have to clamp to the table top.