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Q. Hey Andy, got a real basic question for you. I work in a union shop in Detroit, Michigan and do a lot of welding, and I am interested in doing welding for race cars on the side...(roll cages,etc.). How do I get my foot in the door? Hopefully you've got answers. Thanks. (Submitted by: Troy Duquette from Unknown)
A. Is this something you would like to do on your own or for someone else? If it is on your own, you have a great undertaking ahead. Getting experience at a shop that builds racecar chassis is always a good start. Get to know the basics of roll cage design and chassis geometry. Bending tubing is harder than you might think. I have scrapped quite a few pieces learning bend radius' and stretch. You could try to get in with some of the local teams in your area. This is a good way to learn race car fab. After you have secured a thorough knowledge of race car dynamics, then get yourself a good fixture plate - I use the UNI-JIG (1-888-UNIJIG7)when building or repairing cars. It assures you of a square, straight base to work on. Start by copying what's out there now that works. Make small changes and do a lot of testing. You might try subcontracting out work from other builders. Get your JIG set up and weld their cars together in your shop. Good luck!
A. Is this something you would like to do on your own or for someone else? If it is on your own, you have a great undertaking ahead. Getting experience at a shop that builds racecar chassis is always a good start. Get to know the basics of roll cage design and chassis geometry. Bending tubing is harder than you might think. I have scrapped quite a few pieces learning bend radius' and stretch. You could try to get in with some of the local teams in your area. This is a good way to learn race car fab. After you have secured a thorough knowledge of race car dynamics, then get yourself a good fixture plate - I use the UNI-JIG (1-888-UNIJIG7)when building or repairing cars. It assures you of a square, straight base to work on. Start by copying what's out there now that works. Make small changes and do a lot of testing. You might try subcontracting out work from other builders. Get your JIG set up and weld their cars together in your shop. Good luck!