70sixspeed
Apr 7th, 02, 10:08 PM
I am preparing to do the bodywork on my 70
chevelle, and I could use a little advice.
I have been told that using a air file would
save me alot of time, but I do not know much about them. Any advice on what brand, where to get them, or if they are not worth it would greatly be appreciated! Thanks for all the advice in advance!
jdanlatta
Apr 7th, 02, 10:24 PM
From what I've been told, and know that I'm a beginner too, is that air tools are better off left for when you are more experienced. As I become more experienced, I'm gradually moving to air and electric tools but I have a better understanding on how to use them and what my finished piece is supposed to look like.
I've done a lot of cross-sanding and filing to understand what I'm supposed to see before I go to primer. One thing is for sure, hand tools really help you keep the lines("lines" as in the bend of the lip of a wheel well) in the metal. It's really easy to sand away a "horizon" on the panel with an air file.
Good Luck!
Dan Latta
------------------
1970 El Camino
Student, Santa Monica College
Santa Monica, CA
ACES #5204
SCCC #416
Watch the "progress" at:
http://photos.groups.yahoo.com/group/ElCaminosandChevelles/lst
Jimmy P
Apr 8th, 02, 1:52 PM
Save your money and buy a 16" board sander. Also for final sanding bondo/filler work is a cut up 5 gallon stir stick with 180 paper on it.
Remember to use a cross-hatch pattern when sanding. Sand one way, then the other. Don't press too hard and use too much pressure. You want the surface to conform to the flat surface of your tool.
If you use too much pressure, the surface will slightly 'bend' and the board will 'follow' the contours of the surface instead of removing the highest parts of the filler.
SS_Dave
Apr 8th, 02, 2:40 PM
If you are stripping the old finish, you should be using an obital sander with 40 - 60 grit disks. These will not break edges or remove too much metal. The air file is for working down body filler and just general shaping and leveling on somewhat flat surfaces like doors hoods and fenders etc.
If you ever have to work down some Duraglass or Allmetal, the air file is very useful.
Dave