I think fitting sucks....although very important

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I had to make a battery box for my old mans 50 somethin Farmall tractor.10" long, 8 1/2" high, by 7 1/2" long, makin it out of like 8th in plate. I figured it would be easiest to cut it out with the grinder, compared to using the plasma, it's been acting kinda funny lately, and I can't get the straightest cut in the world with it (even with a straight edge).So I get to cuttin, nice and straight everything nice, go to fit it up to tack and crapola!!!  Just aint really perfect. so needless to say, welded it all up and now I'm gonna have to grind off a good 8th in overhang on one end.....I'm I just retarded or what,    I kinda thought that to make things perfect, some peices would have to be say quarter short to make up for the fitup. But of course I didn't.........I really don't have this problem with pipe or tube or angle.....always plate gives me ****e!!!! HelpMiller blue star 2eLincoln 175
Reply:The better the fit...The better the welds..The better the project..Take your time on the "mock up"..Save your time on the "clean up".. ...zap!I am not completely insane..Some parts are missing Professional Driver on a closed course....Do not attempt.Just because I'm a  dumbass don't mean that you can be too.So DON'T try any of this **** l do at home.
Reply:You're exactly right, it's important but it can suck.I'll spend hours just fitting pieces so that they are uniform. As zap said, it makes for better, more consistent welds and a better overall finished product.- Paulhttp://all-a-cart.comWelding Cart Kits and accessories
Reply:Any "tricks" for plate though.....or am I just a crooked cutter!!!!Miller blue star 2eLincoln 175
Reply:Here's some pics of the box and my little "outfit"!!!! Attached ImagesMiller blue star 2eLincoln 175
Reply:Trace out the shape, measure your diagonals to make sure it's square.  Put some masking tape down so the edge is on the line you've drawn.  Use your cutoff disk to cut it down just outside the masking tape.  Go back and grind the sides so they just meet the tape edge, and you're good to go.
Reply:I've used the grinder method to brake (bend) plate to make tanks.  I just clamped angle iron it to use as a guide.
Reply:Ahhhhh, bend.......don't cut all the way through......why couldnt I think of that!!Miller blue star 2eLincoln 175