Patch Panel Material???

[justbummin1]

Ok guys I need a little help or opinions on which material do I use for making patch panels hot roll or cold roll material and I think 20ga??? I've been in the welding industry for almost 30 years but I have never really messed with this light of material or this type of work but now I have a project that my son and I have started on and need a little help from the pros on here.

Thanks, Rob

 

[78Bird]

Match the original IMO..

I have a 78 Firbird, so I bought a sheet of 18ga that is enough for anything I'll ever need to make.

 

[MP&C]

Hot rolled will normally have the mill finish which is a pain to remove without causing significantly more work for yourself. Stick with the cold rolled.

Typical automotive sheetmetal is normally 19 ga (may vary per manufacturer) but that size is hard to find in some areas. Where 19 is supposed to be .0418 thick, and 18 is .0478 thick, manufacturer's tolerances and trying to save materials will normally yield thinner sizing. I measured some in the shop just the other day, the 19 was right at .041, the 18 at .045. For ease of availability ( and who cares about .004) I would get some 18 ga CRS.

 

[justbummin1]

MP&C thank you for your quick reply! That is what I was thinking about the hot roll as well but it is always a good idea to get advice from a pro.

Thanks again, Rob

 

[bgarrett]

I use OEM.
73 Chevy truck hoods (or any other large flat pieces) can be cut up and provide lots of material for patches