Misc Farting Around

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Hey all, Here's a few things I've been working on recently, got back from 5 months in Alaska - of course looking forward to not doing this type of work (I run a commercial fishing boat).. and now it's all that I've been doing for the last two weeks. I'm a little distorted, I suppose..Just built a Rogue Fabrication tubing bender, figured I'd try it out on a project. Heading to Moab in a few days - wanted a lower rack for my truck. I'm a fan. It's slightly cumbersome to operate initially, but just like all new stuff - it'll get faster as familiarity with the process increases.Still have two bottom supports (full length), and the other end tube to fit up. Figured I'd to front to middle first, then weld middle to back sections. Or, just get a bigger strongback...Yes, I know I have to grind that gusset..Was amazed at the shoddy welds on that trailer hitch; they filled the sided with about 10 feet of wire in an attempt to close a gap. Shocked it went down the road just fine for 20+ years. Really only got serious about fab work about a year ago, it gives me something to do when I'm not fishing. Welded in High School (graduated 2008), did small projects on fishing boats - but that was about it.Enjoy! - JakeDo you really know all of the work that goes into getting that fish onto your plate?
Reply:Fit and fab on this looks really good.  Way too many guys want to rush the fit and fab end of the job, then wonder why things only turn out mediocre. Can't wait until you are done to see the final product..No government ever voluntarily reduces itself in size. Government programs, once launched, never disappear. Actually, a government bureau is the nearest thing to eternal life we'll ever see on this earth! Ronald Reagan
Reply:I like that rotating "sawhorse" idea.
Reply:Originally Posted by rustyironI like that rotating "sawhorse" idea.
Reply:Do you like the Rogue Fab fixture?  I spoke with the owner Joe last year about one of those.  I wanted to use a double action hydraulic cylinder on his unit but he was a bit concerned.   How does it work?  Are you pleased with it?  Very nice I beam saw horse very clever.   Keep us posted on your project. looking good.
Reply:What's the item in the first pic for? Looks to be a cooking grill, but not completely sure.
Reply:Sorry all, been incredibly busy.. The Rogue Bender. I'm on the fence. I've also got Bendtech Pro - which, I'm still an absolute novice with... But, so far it's made working with tube incredibly easy. The bender, not so much. I'm concerned about the longevity of the tube clamp - more specifically, the aluminum threads on the clamp block itself. I don't see it holding up to a lot of hard use. I've found that the (follower die?) like to invert until the tubing is resting against it - it could be improper technique, but I've found that I have to stick my fingers in between the bending wheels in order to hold it in position until the tube contacts it. It's awkward to change out dies. And the aluminum nicks if you look at it wrong. I really don't want to come across as bashing Joe or his business - it's awesome that it's based right in Oregon. I guess I expected a little more for $800 + dollars. Hopefully all of this is just a learning curve, and I'll gain proficiency as time progresses. And yes, first item is a cooking grill.. Next projects are a couple of benches and skids and bumpers for a 2002 Chebby Tahoe..Do you really know all of the work that goes into getting that fish onto your plate?
Reply:Really cool!
Reply:Hmm... Starting to get more in depth with regards to this project: Replicating this bench. What I fabricate doesn't have to be an exact copy, it's going to be installed in a location away from the existing 3. I'm already planning on substituting round stock for the half round material that's used on the existing benches.         - (Checked with all of my local suppliers; the cost of ordering half-round would drive the entire project cost through the roof. Half round will be roughly 1/3 the cost.)        - The existing main frames for the benches are constructed out of 3" tubing that's been mandrel bent. Unfortunately, I don't have a 3" mandrel bender in my shop... Therefore, I'm planning on using long radius weldable 90 degree schedule 40 elbows to construct the main frame.        - As I put more time into the design I'm finding that I want to change it to make it more visually pleasing (to me). But that's not the overall objective...Do you really know all of the work that goes into getting that fish onto your plate?
Reply:Originally Posted by jeverichSorry all, been incredibly busy.. The Rogue Bender. I'm on the fence. I've also got Bendtech Pro - which, I'm still an absolute novice with... But, so far it's made working with tube incredibly easy. The bender, not so much. I'm concerned about the longevity of the tube clamp - more specifically, the aluminum threads on the clamp block itself. I don't see it holding up to a lot of hard use. I've found that the (follower die?) like to invert until the tubing is resting against it - it could be improper technique, but I've found that I have to stick my fingers in between the bending wheels in order to hold it in position until the tube contacts it. It's awkward to change out dies. And the aluminum nicks if you look at it wrong. I really don't want to come across as bashing Joe or his business - it's awesome that it's based right in Oregon. I guess I expected a little more for $800 + dollars. Hopefully all of this is just a learning curve, and I'll gain proficiency as time progresses. And yes, first item is a cooking grill.. Next projects are a couple of benches and skids and bumpers for a 2002 Chebby Tahoe..
Reply:Finally got the bench back from the powder coater... Beautiful work. Do you really know all of the work that goes into getting that fish onto your plate?
Reply:That is really awesome! Any idea on total weight?
Reply:Originally Posted by PipelinerThat is really awesome! Any idea on total weight?
Reply:Here's a headache rack that I built last week; kicking myself that I didn't just slip it into the oven when the bench was getting coated. My paint job is horrible on it!Do you really know all of the work that goes into getting that fish onto your plate?
Reply:200# is way less than I was guessing. Keep at it - again, really nice work!
Reply:Love the bench. What did the powder coating run on a project like that, if you don't mind me asking?
Reply:Originally Posted by raider12Love the bench. What did the powder coating run on a project like that, if you don't mind me asking?
Reply:I'm truly impressed with your work. It's very neat. Love your shop and tools. Do you own Grizzly band saw?PlasmaCam CNC cutterLathe and Band SawClamps
Reply:Originally Posted by surfsideI'm truly impressed with your work. It's very neat. Love your shop and tools. Do you own Grizzly band saw?