Professor Fitzee: Thanks to you, I felt confident enough to cut out and weld in new rocker panels on my '04 Jeep Liberty. I also had to make new bottoms to the back end of the front fenders. I also learned that if you plan on keeping a vehicle for a long time, don't get a Uni-Body if you live in the Rust Belt. Body on Frame is better. Anyway, Thank You. PS, I'm only 73 and just learning this stuff. I plan on being just like you when I grow up. :)
What I love most about you Fitzee is you make difficult repairs look like something I could do. No fancy expensive tools, no magic, just hard work, patience and skill. I can provide the first two and you're providing the third. 👍
He’s not far off taught you then. Because that’s what fitzes all about. Doing repairs without all the fancy tools. Just bog standard cheap and cheerful tools.
I know right! I can't tell yo! u how excited I got watching this because I know I have the hard work and patience part down all I need to do is watch Fitzee and learn the skills! Some of the tricks he uses I was already using when I make flashing for the roof and siding of homes. Fitzee is a national treasure to whatever country he belongs.
tbh it's not that difficult of a repair, and he made it harder in my opinion, he could of cut the outer piece of and used it as a template, tackle the inter one and weld the replacement on.
Saw you had a new video so I paused my work to “attend class”. You and Trevs Blog (a guy in the UK) are the best practical instruction available anywhere. Outstanding Fitzie.
I never repaired a rusted quarter panel in my life before and never will. I can tell this guy is a true professional and he is GREAT at explaining every step of the way such that even a novice can understand. The main thing is that he walks you through the thought process. At the end, you realized that tribal knowledge like this is what separates a hack (like me) from a true pro.
This is the 1st time I have come across this guy and boy does he know his stuff. Not only is he excellent at fabrication He knows just how to communicate his ideas across to people I have learned a lot just from this one video. Liked and subscribed and looking forwards to learning more. Thank you for making your videos. .........Ray H Eng UK
I am 50 something and just getting into project welding and rust repairs for an old car I have. Its something I have always wanted to do and now I have the time. What I really like about your channel is there is nothing fancy about your tools or methods. Your methodology and how you approach a repair is really great info. I also like what looks like a hand-made metal brake and I will be looking at your roller vid shortly. Appreciate your videos! Subscribed.
I'm an old school bodyman , was taught lead repairs by my instructor in high-school and had a successful career. I repaired 70s GMC trucks and have passed on your repairs to those who are restoring their squarebox trucks to the younguns , love watching your repairs
Wow. Im floored. For such a hard area to do that most ppl will cut corners cause its not really seen, especially the inner pieces, you did amazing work. Even a lot of trained people will never know that was repaired. Amazing work. Great job.
I never thought to build the outside panel and then shape the inside one to fit. It's so much easier than trying to fit a panel around the inside you may have butchered when trying to fit it. You never fail to amaze me brother! Well done!
It’s like you knew I needed this video. Will be applying this knowledge to a Bronco and a Ford van. Thank you Sir. Also anyone who questions you not rolling that edge hasn’t been watching your videos.
Fitzee you are a legend! Ive just been in the shop working on the 1974 230.6 Mercedes for the first time since coming across your wisdom. What a difference your tips and knowledge have made to my end product. Massive thanks from Auckland, New Zealand for giving me the confidence to tackle all the rot in my car on my own! Cheers Fitzee!
I finally understand how in the world anyone can fabricate complex curves for auto body panels. It was always a mystery to me. Of course, actually doing it seems to be quite an art. Thank you for the great explanation as you showed us the secrets of your craft!
Great work Fitzee! Lots of very valuable processes and tips. You have the years of experience and it shows through to your finished product. I will definitely remember to get the outer panel fitting and shaped right then fit the inner from that. Then weld in the inner first then the outer last. your hands on years of experience are very much appreciated. Thank you very much for taking the time to help others. Hats off to you for that!
I like how you don't give a set way of how to do it, you show the process of how, to tackle the job and, correct as you go the right way to get an un noticable patch. Each job is similar, but unique at the same time, the process is what counts. Thanks for passing on your knowlege. You're a real oldschool pro.
I'll be rewatching this a few times. Last owner of my car must've been a sculptor. No metal left on the lower quarter, just bondo (surprise). Always a good video fitzee.
@David Galea What you're saying is not untrue, but I knew what I was getting into when I bought it (even if the specific issues are a surprise). I laugh about the things I find and just add it to the list. Part of the process. Some past owner fixes are more "creative" than others.
Some time you can find creative repair would when the vehicle is coming to the end of its daily life use and not seen as a classic in the eyes of the owner just keep it going for few more months
Haha I creative repaired the f*** out of 1985 Nissan Stanza back in the day. Totally know what you’re saying, dusty. AFIK, it is still running up in Connecticut somewhere… but I did tell the person who bought it about all my creativity :)
What's great about these videos and the way you repair them is that it shows that, even if you don't have all the equipment there are ways to still make and finish a repair to a really good standard.
Buddy! I'm so glad I found your channel. Hearing you explain bodywork is just like when my grandfather would teach me mechanical things when we were working on his fishing boat as a youngster in Stephenville.... Just with a lot less swearing. 😂
Thanks Fitzee for your time and experience, I was a bit concerned about that bottom compound curves/rolls matching on the lower left side. So this practice of using the original rust form saves a lot of tweaking labor on the final fabrications and can be used on most rusted areas no matter where it is located on the car/truck.
Hey Tony, another great video. I followed your advice and cut my 1964 f100 roof out, small sections at a time to not lose the profile, and completed it a couple days ago. I started cut and butt but ended up with too large of gaps and had welding sinkage. The driver's side got a little distorted. Not bad but you could feel it with your hand. I changed to cut, scribe and trim to fit on the passenger side and was able to finish the job without any additional shrinkage. It wasn't bad enough to cut it back out and I was able to straighten it out with a light coat of Bondo. Looks good and all that's left is restoring the seam filler above and below the gutter lip. Thanks for the tips!:) You've helped me more than I can say!.
Fitzee, As always a GREAT informational video , done with the most basic of tools . Knowledge is what helps to make these parts, not thousands of dollars of tools. We OLD GUYS used to do it this way , back in the day. It is so refreshing to watch your videos. which I have followed you for quite some time. Thanks for the knowledge. STAY REAL. Your cat was doing a "mouse check " for you....
Although I'm too old to learn and become proficient in your techniques, it's still a pleasure to visit with you awhile watching how a pro would do it. I hope the youngsters are getting something from you
PATIENCE. A couple of comments say about you, I see your total confidence in what you are doing and that no matter how much more time it might take, you are going to repair and fabricate as if it was yours and parked right out front of your shop. In addition to your obvious skill and pride in the process necessary to achieve a finished repair that would be difficult to say was not as it rolled off the assembly line, you are explaining why you are doing every step along the way in a lighthearted manner I believe shows you really enjoy what you are doing. You would have made a memorable instructor for high school kids, as I was lucky enough to have someone similar to you in skill and demeanor back in school. If someone showed interest, he took the time to walk me through whatever it happened to be we were working on... of course that was before the internet, you tube and the cell phone...Due to these modern day devices instead of you helping a few hundred kids, you are taking extra time every video to share your skills with thousands of people that really want to know the right way to do body repairs. I'm not about to try and sell you anything, and this is about my 3rd or 4th comment I have EVER written, just sowing appreciation where its due and thank you for doing these videos.
Hi Fitzee, I am practising your techniques on an ancient metal lawnmower - no real value but lots of complex curves. Better to do it on a scrap device than mess up my car.
How thin is the metal on the mower? I'm guessing it isn't bad since it is much older... ...modern ones are basically made with tin foil - making welding a pain for sure.
@@PWN_Nation I guess this petrol lawnmower is 15 or so years old. The body is simply a pressed steel outline with a couple of baffles welded in and brackets welded on for the handle. The steel is just over 1mm thick. The car I am hoping to repair, of similar age, has steel somwhat thinner than that. I intend to follow Fitzee's advice and use 18 gauge steel for repairing. The lawnmower has lace-like sections and the rest is pretty rusty.
I fixed the lawn mower deck like that last year cut a piece out of a cross member of an old chassis had just the right bend welded did it right in using fritzy's teaching
This is an interesting tutorial. I have a 1989 Chevy pickup and need to do rust repairs. It's good to know what could be done to make it look really good. However, I have to keep in mind that I'm rebuilding a work truck and don't need perfect. My issue is that I don't have a welder. My plan is to make half decent panels and lap joint them in with JB Weld or body panel epoxy. I've seen some kind of tool somewhere that can bend the existing metal in just far enough to get a flush joint. Your tutorial helps a great deal when it comes to making panels that fit. Thanks for such a detailed video!
Fitzee I could watch your videos over and over , love your content and injoy you. Thank you. I have a 1936 ford 5 window coupe and want to finish it.❤😅😊
I hope you don't get offended when I call you uncle fitzee, you remind me of an uncle!! I also call you doctor because of your precision, and I call you professor because of the way you take the time to teach people!! It's nice to see things done right!! Thank you once again sir!!! God bless you and your family!!!
Excellent workmanship. Most folks would fit it "good enough" and try to smooth it out with filler . . . and you're definitely not "most folks". This is a perfect example of how things done well requires careful thought, patience and time. Thanks for doing this demo.
Fantastic video. Ive got a 69 Chevelle that needs this exact repair. I keep debating to just do it myself and your videos give me the confidence to try it. Will see how it goes. Thank you sir!
Due to the complexity of compound bends with inner and outer structures, I can fully understand your methodology. You are basically reverse engineering a factory stamped panel(s), putting the emphasis on the finished exterior first and then using that as your guide and template, rather than your usual chopping out the rusty bits behind first and going from there as it will leave you guessing. Without a doubt, this repair is certainly seamless concourse level restoration. Totally awesome bro, good video and quality content.👍👍 On a funny note...... If Fitzee's did a barbecue video...., Fitzee: First I going to take your bun.., I'm not going to toast it yet but rather use it as a template to build your hamburger patty and then I will cut and butt it later. I'm going to allow for shrinkage so I'm going to make the patty a bit bigger at first and not trim it until It reached the proper temperature. After that, I going to measure the width of your mouth so the burger will fit in it properly and it will all look factory. When your bun is toasted, I'm going to add the cheese to the patty and allow it melt and flow. When that's done, I'm going to go ahead and add just a spot of ketchup and mustard with some pickles, onions and dress it in a way so it don't drip and run down your shirt...
Fantastic info, you are truly a genius metalcrafter! Even at 70 years old you have inspired me to build my 1934 Austin roadster that used to be a drag race car back in 1965. It was a C/Altered that ran at all the northwest tracks. Thanks Man!
If you havent seen Bad Chad yet, he has hired a young guy to help in the shop. This kid seems pretty eager to learn. All hope is not lost. :) Or MacroMachine I think is the channel name. Young kid that has crazy skills!
Superb as always! I know that you work really hard to keep the original lines/shapes etc, is it not tempting to try to redesign some areas like this one to try and remove water traps/increase drainage?
I love the way you can take a complete rust monster with 14-inch fangs and a very angry expression and tame it into a common-sense step by step and turn it into a thing of beauty. When I first saw that rust, This was a monster in my eyes. I have been watching your videos as I have started some minor rust repair on my 76 Eldorado Convertible and it is turning out great and way beyond what I thought my abilities to be thanks to you. I think the most valuable advice you have given "at least for me" was not to overthink and get overwhelmed as I easily do.
Was a bodyman by trade but enjoy the metal fabrication side of it. When everyone wanted to be a painter I want to cut metal. Mostly self taught. Not alot of metal guys in my part
Fitzee your a great teacher. I watch you and Ron Covell for the same reason. You both sneak up on the point by showing it. It doesn't always seem obvious at the start but by the end you have learned a much better though process and approach to a problem than when you started. You can Ron can't be more different in other aspects. You give us practical simple tools approach to a problem and Ron offers high tech tools to solve problems. Glad your here to give us small garage guys a chance too.
when you can make it look as easy as this gentleman can, you have mastered your craft. Good stuff here. Its definitely intimidating to tackle but a necessary skill to have when refurbishing these older cars.
Vision, confidence and a tad bit of experience is whats needed to do this kind of work. Good to see a craftsman at work. Very interesting video (well for me at least), well done.
Doing that patch in a way that will hold up as long or longer than the factory metal. Great work, awesome finished product. My dad was an old school metal man. Used lead, hammer welded, brazed, hammer and dolly work. I miss watching him do all that. You bring back the whole experience, I can even smell my dad's shop while watching.
Listening to how you do it helps to understand the process as opposed to just seeing it done. And you use fewer tools to do it. Became a subscriber. Now I've got you and Murphy. LOL!
I can tell you truely love the art of this. Perfectionist with years of experience shows, it made this very easy to understand. That pipe roller is a time saver!!! My first time, only had a break. And dolly ( no tdoll😥) A conversion van came in, I had to make panels for both the rear corners, half way up the wheel well. Also section behind the side door, with no inner to use for template 😂. It did not go nearly as good as you made this look👏
Great video, very inspirational. I'm starting work on a 70 El Camino and appreciate the clear instruction, good technique using simple tools. Many Thanks
Thank you Fitzee for the inspiration to dare trying repairing old rust. Your words saying something like " dont overthink it, make it piece by piece, just start trying." I dared to try, saw how relativily easy it was once you just jump into the job. I¨ll be watching you now, and in the future :)
Glad there is people like you showing the steps and time, time , time it takes to do it right and hopefully people we see why it coast so much to do this type of work when rust repair panels are no available !
Great stuff, and lessons to learn. When you tack welded the panel at 37:17 I was thinking that ”weird, there’ll be a lip there” as I wasnt fully listening what you talked but then I saw you starting to cut the panel line I just went ”😮” and realised you really take your time to get everything as perfect as needed to. Thank you for your videos, much appreciated you doing these.
Have heavy engineering fitting and welding background and panel steel work scared me .After watching and listening to you feel I done another apprenticeship I'm getting up with the play now thanks Fitzee teaching is in your blood .
Thank you for the "tips" I have my pipe anvil done and finishing the metal brake soon. Thanks to you! I would never have got started with out your instructive videos... Now to rusty cars and trucks!
Nice job, Fitzee. Gives me the confidence to tackle a few small problem areas on my old project cars. I love your 'what sounds to be' Irish, French, Canadian accent😁 Also, loved the 'Cat-Scan' by the 'Quality Inspector' at the end, gave me a good chuckle🤣👍🇦🇺
Fantastic looking job as usual. You know I think I learn something from you every time. I’ve never really done any body work. I have played with bondo (filling in holes the wrong way). I’m 65 and still want to learn, so thanks for the info. Keep ‘‘em come in.
As a welder fitter by trade, the only thing I can think of is that Final Cut n butt is going to throw metal shavings inside that clean metal you just sealed off. I really do like your method of slow fitting the pieces together on the original body to get it just right. Body work scares me, and you make it look more enjoyable than I thought. Great vid man.
MAN!! I love your work!! I've never done this type of work, but seeing your videos gives me more courage to do the floors and doglegs on my 56' Chevy wagon! Keep them coming!👍🏼👍🏼
Professor Fitzee: Thanks to you, I felt confident enough to cut out and weld in new rocker panels on my '04 Jeep Liberty. I also had to make new bottoms to the back end of the front fenders. I also learned that if you plan on keeping a vehicle for a long time, don't get a Uni-Body if you live in the Rust Belt. Body on Frame is better. Anyway, Thank You. PS, I'm only 73 and just learning this stuff. I plan on being just like you when I grow up. :)
Excellent!!
Me too
Me three. Thank you!!
Me 4, excelent done, my prado 95 has 418k km, some repair done.
73....Still Young & Able...
And this is why body work cost so much$$...5 inches of repair takes alot of time..nice job fitzee. Luck guy who owns this car...quality work
What I love most about you Fitzee is you make difficult repairs look like something I could do. No fancy expensive tools, no magic, just hard work, patience and skill. I can provide the first two and you're providing the third. 👍
He’s not far off taught you then. Because that’s what fitzes all about. Doing repairs without all the fancy tools. Just bog standard cheap and cheerful tools.
I know right! I can't tell yo! u how excited I got watching this because I know I have the hard work and patience part down all I need to do is watch Fitzee and learn the skills! Some of the tricks he uses I was already using when I make flashing for the roof and siding of homes. Fitzee is a national treasure to whatever country he belongs.
tbh it's not that difficult of a repair, and he made it harder in my opinion, he could of cut the outer piece of and used it as a template, tackle the inter one and weld the replacement on.
@@cristianandrei5462 Wow, you make it sound so simple. Please make and post a video illustrating your technique. I'm sure that it won't take you long.
Saw you had a new video so I paused my work to “attend class”. You and Trevs Blog (a guy in the UK) are the best practical instruction available anywhere. Outstanding Fitzie.
Trev has a good channel
Check out "Make it Kustom" he has some great skill too. Young guy that does hot rods and custom work.
@@martinsteele3259 I’ll give him a look. It’s good to share channels that are genuinely good craftsmanship
@@martinsteele3259 found him a week or so ago. Has mad skills. Good channel
@@fitzeesfabrications And Canadian! completely opp side of the country from you!
I wish I could have been your apprentice 40 years ago, at 80 I am a bit late to catch up now, thanks for the blog, Paul.
@paul newton your never to old to learn even though physically not able to do although i cant do anymore we can appreciate a craftsman and his skills
They don't use lead anymore. Just
Bondo..lol
@@lesjones7019 good idea
I'm 68, just got my first welder, lil Lincoln Handy MIG... wish me luck huh? 😊
I never repaired a rusted quarter panel in my life before and never will. I can tell this guy is a true professional and he is GREAT at explaining every step of the way such that even a novice can understand. The main thing is that he walks you through the thought process. At the end, you realized that tribal knowledge like this is what separates a hack (like me) from a true pro.
This is the 1st time I have come across this guy and boy does he know his stuff. Not only is he excellent at fabrication He knows just how to communicate his ideas across to people I have learned a lot just from this one video. Liked and subscribed and looking forwards to learning more. Thank you for making your videos. .........Ray H Eng UK
They say the key to skill is making something that's very difficult look easy.
If that is the case, it means Fitzee is an incredibly skilled person!
I am 50 something and just getting into project welding and rust repairs for an old car I have. Its something I have always wanted to do and now I have the time. What I really like about your channel is there is nothing fancy about your tools or methods. Your methodology and how you approach a repair is really great info. I also like what looks like a hand-made metal brake and I will be looking at your roller vid shortly. Appreciate your videos! Subscribed.
It's never too late to stop
What you're doing and just give up and spend your time on a couch 🛋 😴
Beautiful work Fitzee! You do the best metalworking videos using limited tools that's realistic for most everyday folk. Thanks!
I'm an old school bodyman , was taught lead repairs by my instructor in high-school and had a successful career. I repaired 70s GMC trucks and have passed on your repairs to those who are restoring their squarebox trucks to the younguns , love watching your repairs
Hi Tony, what a sexy repair. Thanks for taking your time to film it all the way from start to finish. Better than factory it is. 😊
You take a difficult repair and make it look simple You are an amazing teacher. Thank you
So much skill and patience.
Oh i
Wow. Im floored. For such a hard area to do that most ppl will cut corners cause its not really seen, especially the inner pieces, you did amazing work. Even a lot of trained people will never know that was repaired. Amazing work. Great job.
"Build from the outside in, and weld from inside out". Makes PERFECT sense! Thank you for sharing Fitzee!
I never thought to build the outside panel and then shape the inside one to fit. It's so much easier than trying to fit a panel around the inside you may have butchered when trying to fit it. You never fail to amaze me brother! Well done!
Dude, you are one in a million... Beautiful workmanship.
It’s like you knew I needed this video. Will be applying this knowledge to a Bronco and a Ford van. Thank you Sir. Also anyone who questions you not rolling that edge hasn’t been watching your videos.
You the Bob Ross of auto repair! Thank you so much for sharing your techniques
Fitzee you are a legend! Ive just been in the shop working on the 1974 230.6 Mercedes for the first time since coming across your wisdom. What a difference your tips and knowledge have made to my end product. Massive thanks from Auckland, New Zealand for giving me the confidence to tackle all the rot in my car on my own! Cheers Fitzee!
I finally understand how in the world anyone can fabricate complex curves for auto body panels. It was always a mystery to me. Of course, actually doing it seems to be quite an art. Thank you for the great explanation as you showed us the secrets of your craft!
Great work Fitzee! Lots of very valuable processes and tips. You have the years of experience and it shows through to your finished product. I will definitely remember to get the outer panel fitting and shaped right then fit the inner from that. Then weld in the inner first then the outer last. your hands on years of experience are very much appreciated. Thank you very much for taking the time to help others. Hats off to you for that!
This channel will save me thousands
I like how you don't give a set way of how to do it, you show the process of how, to tackle the job and, correct as you go the right way to get an un noticable patch.
Each job is similar, but unique at the same time, the process is what counts.
Thanks for passing on your knowlege.
You're a real oldschool pro.
I'll be rewatching this a few times. Last owner of my car must've been a sculptor. No metal left on the lower quarter, just bondo (surprise). Always a good video fitzee.
@David Galea What you're saying is not untrue, but I knew what I was getting into when I bought it (even if the specific issues are a surprise). I laugh about the things I find and just add it to the list. Part of the process. Some past owner fixes are more "creative" than others.
Some time you can find creative repair would when the vehicle is coming to the end of its daily life use and not seen as a classic in the eyes of the owner just keep it going for few more months
Haha I creative repaired the f*** out of 1985 Nissan Stanza back in the day. Totally know what you’re saying, dusty. AFIK, it is still running up in Connecticut somewhere… but I did tell the person who bought it about all my creativity :)
One of my trucks 80 f100 someone put red shop rags in the holes in the cab corners and filled it in with bondo 🙄
Was the truck also red? Because, if not, I think you have a case of unacceptable creativity.
First time watching...
Your patience and attention to detail are a pleasure to watch my friend .
What's great about these videos and the way you repair them is that it shows that, even if you don't have all the equipment there are ways to still make and finish a repair to a really good standard.
Buddy! I'm so glad I found your channel. Hearing you explain bodywork is just like when my grandfather would teach me mechanical things when we were working on his fishing boat as a youngster in Stephenville.... Just with a lot less swearing. 😂
Thanks Fitzee for your time and experience, I was a bit concerned about that bottom compound curves/rolls matching on the lower left side.
So this practice of using the original rust form saves a lot of tweaking labor on the final fabrications and can be used on most rusted areas no matter where it is located on the car/truck.
Awesome! I’m going to watch everything you have before I start my extensive 48 GMC cab repair/rebuild. Thanks!!!
Hey Tony, another great video. I followed your advice and cut my 1964 f100 roof out, small sections at a time to not lose the profile, and completed it a couple days ago. I started cut and butt but ended up with too large of gaps and had welding sinkage. The driver's side got a little distorted. Not bad but you could feel it with your hand. I changed to cut, scribe and trim to fit on the passenger side and was able to finish the job without any additional shrinkage. It wasn't bad enough to cut it back out and I was able to straighten it out with a light coat of Bondo. Looks good and all that's left is restoring the seam filler above and below the gutter lip. Thanks for the tips!:) You've helped me more than I can say!.
Very cool to hear. Glad you got the job done.
You come across as world champion in fabrication. Always a pleasure watching and learning from your videos. Keep them coming.
Fitzee,
As always a GREAT informational video , done with the most basic of tools . Knowledge is what helps to make these parts, not thousands of dollars of tools. We OLD GUYS used to do it this way , back in the day.
It is so refreshing to watch your videos. which I have followed you for quite some time.
Thanks for the knowledge.
STAY REAL.
Your cat was doing a "mouse check " for you....
The tips were great. I love the way you take your time to show your thought process on the repair. It turned out factory looking. Great Job!
Your a very good teacher. Thanks for all the time you take to explain and share your knowledge.
Although I'm too old to learn and become proficient in your techniques, it's still a pleasure to visit with you awhile watching how a pro would do it.
I hope the youngsters are getting something from you
The tips are always good!
PATIENCE. A couple of comments say about you, I see your total confidence in what you are doing and that no matter how much more time it might take, you are going to repair and fabricate as if it was yours and parked right out front of your shop. In addition to your obvious skill and pride in the process necessary to achieve a finished repair that would be difficult to say was not as it rolled off the assembly line, you are explaining why you are doing every step along the way in a lighthearted manner I believe shows you really enjoy what you are doing. You would have made a memorable instructor for high school kids, as I was lucky enough to have someone similar to you in skill and demeanor back in school. If someone showed interest, he took the time to walk me through whatever it happened to be we were working on... of course that was before the internet, you tube and the cell phone...Due to these modern day devices instead of you helping a few hundred kids, you are taking extra time every video to share your skills with thousands of people that really want to know the right way to do body repairs. I'm not about to try and sell you anything, and this is about my 3rd or 4th comment I have EVER written, just sowing appreciation where its due and thank you for doing these videos.
Hi Fitzee, I am practising your techniques on an ancient metal lawnmower - no real value but lots of complex curves. Better to do it on a scrap device than mess up my car.
Good idea. I have my eye on the old square baler.
I always say if I can't fix it or I make it worse. I know someone that can fix it for me or I have more scrap metal. Win win for me.
How thin is the metal on the mower? I'm guessing it isn't bad since it is much older...
...modern ones are basically made with tin foil - making welding a pain for sure.
@@PWN_Nation I guess this petrol lawnmower is 15 or so years old. The body is simply a pressed steel outline with a couple of baffles welded in and brackets welded on for the handle. The steel is just over 1mm thick. The car I am hoping to repair, of similar age, has steel somwhat thinner than that. I intend to follow Fitzee's advice and use 18 gauge steel for repairing. The lawnmower has lace-like sections and the rest is pretty rusty.
I fixed the lawn mower deck like that last year cut a piece out of a cross member of an old chassis had just the right bend welded did it right in using fritzy's teaching
Inside out makes perfect sense when you show and explain. Thanks for the help Tony
Fritzee, just facinating and what a teacher. You sir are one of a kind. cheers... dme
This is an interesting tutorial. I have a 1989 Chevy pickup and need to do rust repairs. It's good to know what could be done to make it look really good. However, I have to keep in mind that I'm rebuilding a work truck and don't need perfect. My issue is that I don't have a welder. My plan is to make half decent panels and lap joint them in with JB Weld or body panel epoxy. I've seen some kind of tool somewhere that can bend the existing metal in just far enough to get a flush joint. Your tutorial helps a great deal when it comes to making panels that fit. Thanks for such a detailed video!
Right hand hammering, impressive! Great work and explanation as usual.
Beautiful work, Fitzee!
I was enthralled with your artistry and craftsmanship.
I learn soooo much from you!
You are an inspiration.
Can’t wait for the next project.
Thank you for sharing your knowledge.
Fitzee I could watch your videos over and over , love your content and injoy you. Thank you. I have a 1936 ford 5 window coupe and want to finish it.❤😅😊
I hope you don't get offended when I call you uncle fitzee, you remind me of an uncle!! I also call you doctor because of your precision, and I call you professor because of the way you take the time to teach people!! It's nice to see things done right!! Thank you once again sir!!! God bless you and your family!!!
Honest, I didn't read your comment before I called him professor😃
Excellent workmanship. Most folks would fit it "good enough" and try to smooth it out with filler . . . and you're definitely not "most folks". This is a perfect example of how things done well requires careful thought, patience and time. Thanks for doing this demo.
Such great advice! I will absolutely use this technique in the future. Thank you!
Fantastic video. Ive got a 69 Chevelle that needs this exact repair. I keep debating to just do it myself and your videos give me the confidence to try it. Will see how it goes. Thank you sir!
Been watching your channel for months. You do amazing work. You make things look easy even tho they are not…
Another awesome video, Tony! Timing is perfect again for my 66 GTO. Your videos have been a God-send!
Due to the complexity of compound bends with inner and outer structures, I can fully understand your methodology. You are basically reverse engineering a factory stamped panel(s), putting the emphasis on the finished exterior first and then using that as your guide and template, rather than your usual chopping out the rusty bits behind first and going from there as it will leave you guessing. Without a doubt, this repair is certainly seamless concourse level restoration. Totally awesome bro, good video and quality content.👍👍
On a funny note......
If Fitzee's did a barbecue video....,
Fitzee: First I going to take your bun.., I'm not going to toast it yet but rather use it as a template to build your hamburger patty and then I will cut and butt it later.
I'm going to allow for shrinkage so I'm going to make the patty a bit bigger at first and not trim it until It reached the proper temperature.
After that, I going to measure the width of your mouth so the burger will fit in it properly and it will all look factory. When your bun is toasted, I'm going to add the cheese to the patty and allow it melt and flow. When that's done, I'm going to go ahead and add just a spot of ketchup and mustard with some pickles, onions and dress it in a way so it don't drip and run down your shirt...
Hahaha too funny
I can hear it in Fitzee's voice! 🤣
This was a great video, one of the best I’ve watched. Easy to understand, not fancy. Thank you.
Amazing work as always, thanks Fitz!
Yep
All restorators is here ))
@@PROxShAnT ojjjkk
Love how you leave the template on the bench when you go to the pipe anvil, and then eyeball an almost perfect bend. You make it look easy sir.
Building from the outside in- never thought about going about a repair that way. It makes great sense as you showed. Thanks for the lessons!
Fantastic info, you are truly a genius metalcrafter! Even at 70 years old you have inspired me to build my 1934 Austin roadster that used to be a drag race car back in 1965. It was a C/Altered that ran at all the northwest tracks. Thanks Man!
Oh I love to see that. I love drag racing history. If your on Facebook pop over to my page. Love to see pics of that.
Keepem coming the craft is dying as we know it. Maybe some of these young bucks will continue the legacy of metal craftsmanship.
If you havent seen Bad Chad yet, he has hired a young guy to help in the shop. This kid seems pretty eager to learn. All hope is not lost. :) Or MacroMachine I think is the channel name. Young kid that has crazy skills!
If you are looking for a 54 yo apprentice I think I know someone! :)
@@martinsteele3259 too many bad habits Martin lol.
I’d reckon there might be a young Doe or two that might be interested too👍
@@craigpearson4622 Yes ladies and gents def anyone to carry on the skills!
I love your podcasts. I have learn a great many things about welding thin metal from you. Thank you.
You sir are a true craftsmen, incredible job !
That's absolutely the best explanation for doing the job correctly , you've got a special talent 👍
Superb as always! I know that you work really hard to keep the original lines/shapes etc, is it not tempting to try to redesign some areas like this one to try and remove water traps/increase drainage?
These rusted out cause there's no protection on the inside. 60s Cars were welded togeather in bare metal then painted.
I love the way you can take a complete rust monster with 14-inch fangs and a very angry expression and tame it into a common-sense step by step and turn it into a thing of beauty. When I first saw that rust, This was a monster in my eyes. I have been watching your videos as I have started some minor rust repair on my 76 Eldorado Convertible and it is turning out great and way beyond what I thought my abilities to be thanks to you. I think the most valuable advice you have given "at least for me" was not to overthink and get overwhelmed as I easily do.
Fitz, how you learn to do this? Was this your trade?
Was a bodyman by trade but enjoy the metal fabrication side of it. When everyone wanted to be a painter I want to cut metal. Mostly self taught. Not alot of metal guys in my part
Fitzee your a great teacher. I watch you and Ron Covell for the same reason. You both sneak up on the point by showing it. It doesn't always seem obvious at the start but by the end you have learned a much better though process and approach to a problem than when you started. You can Ron can't be more different in other aspects. You give us practical simple tools approach to a problem and Ron offers high tech tools to solve problems. Glad your here to give us small garage guys a chance too.
"I know it looks rough" No no no My patches and welding look rough . I like grinders
A grinder and thick coat of paint, makes me the welder I ain't..
He needs to adjust is welder get flat mild crown welds and overlap the tacks a bit IMO
when you can make it look as easy as this gentleman can, you have mastered your craft. Good stuff here. Its definitely intimidating to tackle but a necessary skill to have when refurbishing these older cars.
Man I wish you lived in Alberta
Me too
Vision, confidence and a tad bit of experience is whats needed to do this kind of work. Good to see a craftsman at work. Very interesting video (well for me at least), well done.
Doing that patch in a way that will hold up as long or longer than the factory metal. Great work, awesome finished product. My dad was an old school metal man. Used lead, hammer welded, brazed, hammer and dolly work. I miss watching him do all that. You bring back the whole experience, I can even smell my dad's shop while watching.
Thank you for showing the mistakes. That's one of the hardest things to figure out. Whether you can salvage what you've done or start over.
Master Fitzee’s lessons are raw talent from descriptions with great detail to techniques you feel the passion. The Bob Ross of cars. 🖼️ Thanks chap.
Wow!! Comment section says you inspire so many people to do these projects. A worthy legacy you are creating.
Listening to how you do it helps to understand the process as opposed to just seeing it done. And you use fewer tools to do it. Became a subscriber. Now I've got you and Murphy. LOL!
I can tell you truely love the art of this. Perfectionist with years of experience shows, it made this very easy to understand.
That pipe roller is a time saver!!!
My first time, only had a break. And dolly ( no tdoll😥) A conversion van came in, I had to make panels for both the rear corners, half way up the wheel well. Also section behind the side door, with no inner to use for template 😂. It did not go nearly as good as you made this look👏
Great video, very inspirational. I'm starting work on a 70 El Camino and appreciate the clear instruction, good technique using simple tools. Many Thanks
Got to admire this hand made repair, dedication and passion. Great Video, you got all my respect!!!
Pearls of wisdom from the master. Enjoyable as always, Tony. Thanks!
Fitzee you make it look so easy I've got a 1956 Chevy I'm starting to work on using the tips you showed THANKS
I simply love this stuff !
Fantastic filming ! 😊👍🏻
Thank you Fitzee for the inspiration to dare trying repairing old rust. Your words saying something like " dont overthink it, make it piece by piece, just start trying." I dared to try, saw how relativily easy it was once you just jump into the job. I¨ll be watching you now, and in the future :)
Glad there is people like you showing the steps and time, time , time it takes to do it right and hopefully people we see why it coast so much to do this type of work when rust repair panels are no available !
You make it look so easy! Another great lesson on metal work. The way you build the patch panels is so smart. Thank you Fitzee!!!
Nicely done. Not being much of a bodywork guy, I definitely learned a bit here that might help me save my Ram.
Cheers from the opposite coast (Vic).
Great stuff, and lessons to learn. When you tack welded the panel at 37:17 I was thinking that ”weird, there’ll be a lip there” as I wasnt fully listening what you talked but then I saw you starting to cut the panel line I just went ”😮” and realised you really take your time to get everything as perfect as needed to. Thank you for your videos, much appreciated you doing these.
Any 6 year old with 50 years experience can do this. you sir are a MASTER!!!!
Nice explanation of the process.you make it look so easy and give people confidence to try these kinds of repairs, thanks again!
A tremendous amount of skill demonstrated in this video. He makes it look easy.
Always an education watching your videos,never gets boring, you are a great teacher.
Have heavy engineering fitting and welding background and panel steel work scared me .After watching and listening to you feel I done another apprenticeship I'm getting up with the play now thanks Fitzee teaching is in your blood .
Thank you for the "tips" I have my pipe anvil done and finishing the metal brake soon. Thanks to you! I would never have got started with out your instructive videos... Now to rusty cars and trucks!
Glad I could help. Keep us posted on your first project
Your wonderful at explaining, every detail is, and should be, covered.
Thank you!
A true craftsman, we need you and a thousand apprentices under you. Thank you.
Nice job, Fitzee.
Gives me the confidence to tackle a few small problem areas on my old project cars.
I love your 'what sounds to be' Irish, French, Canadian accent😁
Also, loved the 'Cat-Scan' by the 'Quality Inspector' at the end, gave me a good chuckle🤣👍🇦🇺
I believe he is a newfoundlander
Fantastic looking job as usual. You know I think I learn something from you every time. I’ve never really done any body work. I have played with bondo (filling in holes the wrong way). I’m 65 and still want to learn, so thanks for the info. Keep ‘‘em come in.
As a welder fitter by trade, the only thing I can think of is that Final Cut n butt is going to throw metal shavings inside that clean metal you just sealed off.
I really do like your method of slow fitting the pieces together on the original body to get it just right. Body work scares me, and you make it look more enjoyable than I thought. Great vid man.
I just did this on my project car and my quarter panel looks great!! Now i just need to redo the other side lol. Thanks Fitzee!! You're the best!
nice job Fitz you make complicated work manageable to do, for anyone who's willing to take on body work. cheers Tony. until next time.
MAN!! I love your work!! I've never done this type of work, but seeing your videos gives me more courage to do the floors and doglegs on my 56' Chevy wagon! Keep them coming!👍🏼👍🏼