drawing software ?????

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I was hoping you guys and gals could help me out with chosing a computer aided drawing software. this is just going to be for my personal use and some small jobs I have coming up. I have been using the old pencil and graph paper up til now so its time to get with the times. I don't want to spend a ton of money but don't mind investing in something that is good. I have pretty good computer skills and learn things pretty quick. thanks for any help sent my way.
Reply:Google Sketchup is the quickest easiest answer. It's free (there is a paid for Pro version too), easy to learn and has lots of instructional videos. I started using is about 3 years ago and I use it for everything. You draw accurate, to scale models down to .001" and can easily make changes without the need for a rubber eraser  Sketchup has a built in "dimensions tool" that let's you drop the dimesnions between two points in the model which can be printed.Great example: I have a custom engine swap project going and will need a custom radiator made so I drew what I'm working with in Sketchup and sent it to Griffin Radiator. That one simple drawing takes all the guess work out and lets the Griffin tech see exactly what I'm working with.Another example: I recently built forks for my tractor. I drew it all out in Sketchup and then used all the dimesions from the model to cut and build the forks. It took all the guess work out and I got everything right the first time. No mis-aligments, no wasted material and no "do-overs". The forks can be seen here: http://weldingweb.com/vbb/showthread.php?t=62398Here are some other examples of recent models I've done: Tractor bucket with welded on brush forks, chop saw stand and a lanscaping project for my son's school assignement. Attached Images
Reply:wow, nice work. i had a couple other people mention sketchup. sounds good thanks
Reply:Solidworks is a pretty sweet piece of software. Plus when you build stuff with it you can move the parts around just like they would move in real life.http://s456.photobucket.com/albums/q...s%20Creations/There are some stills and some video animations of some stuff I've been working on with Solidworks. It's also fairly easy to learn to use if you watch enough YouTube videos.Brad GeorgeCurrent Equipment:AIRCO Heliwelder IV 300Amp Model - Total Awesomeness!Old 120v Hobart Handler MIGVarious grinders, cutting tools, hammers, clamps, ect..."I'm an amateur welder with lots left to learn..."
Reply:Sketchup can be a little difficult to get started with, mostly because it doesn't work like other drafting programs, but it's a great program once you learn the basics of it. Go to the site sketchupforwoodworkers.com and go through the turorials (I know we're not woodworkers, but the tutorials still apply). I ran into difficulties grasping some of the techniques until I watched these tutorials. A Google search on sketchupforwoodworkers brings up an e-book and other aids for Sketchup as well.  I use Autocad when a customer requires it, but use Sketchup whenever I'm doing something for myself or can make the choice. It's much easier, faster, and more fun to use.CharleyMiller MM252Miller Bobcat 225NTMiller DialArc HF / DIY Cooler2 Victor O/A TorchsetsMilwaukee 8" Metal SawMilwaukee Dry Cut "Chop" Saw 5 Ton Wallace Gantry Various Grinders, Benders, etc.
Reply:I use one of these, I find I waste less time drawing and looking at pics and actually building the part/project when not on the computer.
Reply:Oh damn....why haven't I looked at Sketchup before? Those look really good mark. From the looks of it all the dimensions carry into the final model.Personally I'm used to PRO/E(Pro Engineer). I think they call it something else like WildFire or something now but everyone who's used it before knows it as PRO/E. Same sort of deal like Solidworks or AutoCAD, etc.Last I checked, with Solidworks and PRO/E you can get a hold of "Educational" copies. I used one of PRO/E for my basic ENEE classes. Downloaded right from the developer's site for free. Stripped down, but the basic modeling/design functionality was there. Still have it, but usually using PCB design programs more now :/HTP Invertig 221-DV -- get's dragged everywhere.Syncro 200 -- "The Boat Anchor" at the lab.Lincoln 125 MIG