will 0.050" aluminum make a body

olddog · #1 (**permalink**) 07-03-2008, 08:10 AM

I know a fellow who has 10 sheets of 6' x 10' x 0.050" aluminum and wants to make his own cobra body. He was a machinest by trade and said it was the correct grade to work with. I was just curious if the thickness is in the right ball park.

Joe@KMS · #2 (**permalink**) 07-03-2008, 08:33 AM

I believe the originals were .050".

We use closer to .060" - .080" depending on which part of the body.

1985 CCX · #3 (**permalink**) 07-03-2008, 09:29 AM

Joe

Great information!
Still trying for KMS in the future!

Jeff

Joe@KMS · #4 (**permalink**) 07-03-2008, 10:23 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 1985 CCX

Joe

Great information!
Still trying for KMS in the future!

Jeff

We have a special hybrid coming in on the next container... Much like CSX 2324 that we have talked about.

It will be really cool with an FIA type front, regular doors and "Joseph" flares on the back, with the big vents in the sides.

Stay tuned for more info...

olddog · #5 (**permalink**) 07-03-2008, 10:53 AM

Thanks Joe that helps.

This fellow was rear ended by a 18 wheeler and the top three vertibra in his neck was broken. This left him disabled physically and financially. He still has the use of his hands and legs, but has weekness and fatigue issues. He is a true cobra lover, so I will try to help him out. I will likely ask some more questions, if he does follow through with his plans.

Joe@KMS · #6 (**permalink**) 07-03-2008, 11:02 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 1985 CCX

Joe

Great information!
Still trying for KMS in the future!

Jeff

We have a special hybrid coming in on the next container... Much like CSX 2324 that we have talked about.

It will be really cool with an FIA type front, regular doors and "Joseph" flares on the back, with the big vents in the sides.

Stay tuned for more info...

Hank F · #7 (**permalink**) 07-03-2008, 11:08 AM

Joe,what grade aluminium do your guys use and do they anneal(sp) it?
Thanks Hank

Joe@KMS · #8 (**permalink**) 07-03-2008, 04:26 PM

Hank,

The alloy we use is a military secret. We buy it from the same mill that did it for the aircraft at the factory before we got involved. All I know is that it is an aircraft grade called P2 and there is not a direct equivalent in our system (I am sure there is something close but I have no idea what it is). If you want more info on metal forming and alloy available on this side of the pond I would check out www.metalmeet.com. Lots of talent and info there.

Hank F · #9 (**permalink**) 07-03-2008, 04:43 PM

Thanks Joe
It must be Kripto H-14!! Hank

RedEsprit · #10 (**permalink**) 07-04-2008, 06:52 PM

The old AC bodies were approximately 50 thou so provided its the right alloy should be just fine. If it is .060 its likely 1100. I think 3003 H-14 comes in .063. A lot to forming those bodies though. I took a 3 day course on wheeling from Ron and Dan Fournier in Detroit which is worth its weight in gold if your friend is contemplated building a body. You can also stay an extra day and they will teach you the tricks of gas welding aluminum sheet with the little Henrob 2000 welders. Small class size (6) so you get a lot of personal attention. Good people.

mickmate · #11 (**permalink**) 07-04-2008, 10:07 PM

I was thinking 3003 H3 that's what Joe Stafford uses http://www.panel-craft.com Also some good tips on equipment for welding ally. He is doing a body (not a Cobra) for us right now.