Finallygotit
ALLIANCE MEMBER
Subscribed 
Welcome to the Chop Shop
- Thread starter Big Daddy Chop Shop
- Start date
I saw your build awhile ago, and hadn't noticed updates. Just ran across it again, and see I have missed a ton of stuff happening. I have to get better about using and remembering the subscribe feature. Your place is really coming along nicely.
OP
Big Daddy Chop Shop
Well-known member
Thanks to all who are following along, this is an encouragement to plug away and to continue with the updates.
Overall a very good weekend at the Compound. I ended up working Saturday for about 6 hours (my real job, lol) so time was cut short. But working in the service industry, that is just reality. I have been on call all my adult life, and likely always will be. Customers are important, without them, none of this is possible.
This weekend I decided to pause with construction, and begin to move some items around. The shop had become a huge mess from construction, and it was time to reclaim the space, and redeem the time. The first step was to put many items into the loft for both storage and for loft usage. This included the torpedo heaters (for the summer), the A/C system I need to get installed, 2 large 4 drawer filing cabinets, a couple desks (I had used as benches, but will become loft furniture as the kids love to draw and even come out and do homework while I work) and some sheet metal I had picked up from work (not sure what I will use it for long term, but it was too nice to let it go).
I also decided to move the items into the tool room. I began this last week, but in earnest moved almost everything in there this week. 2 sets of free standing shelves, wooden workbench, metal rolling "fab" bench, welders, and on and on. It is still just one temp light in there, so pictures are a bit tough. It seems a bit crowded in the tool room, but everything is close, and I believe it will work well for the types of projects I am currently doing. The fab bench can be rolled to the main floor and used out there.
Before anyone freaks out at the pics, the boys (J- shooting ball, N- near the ladder, and R- at the desk) are very comfortable on ladders, and I have taken extensive ladder safety, which I have passed along to them, and I keep a constant eye on them while they are in the loft. That said, railings or 1/2 walls will be going up soon, next, actually. I have even thought of a temp system, but want to be sure whatever I do will keep them safe, and not just provide a false sense of safety, which, in my opinion, is worse.
Sunday brought a little excitement while pops was over. I was moving the Hustler, and a mouse make an exit from the deck. With all the items moved around he had little place to go, so the "great white hunter" in me came out. My first reaction was to unholster the SD9 on my right hip, but with the concrete and steel, I quickly thought better of it. Grabbing a shovel, and with the faithful and skilled hunter Meeka (our black Golden doodle) present, I made a fool of myself and drove her crazy for 10 minutes or so. No dice and the mouse disappeared. The wise bull (Pops) took J over to his place to secure a few spring traps. "They can't resist peanut butter" he remarked as he placed the traps.
Of course, church was attended, and El Jefe's was eaten, I am a creature of habit. We also did a bit of landscaping in the front as the Mrs. planted some flowers in the built in beds.
This week is full of baseball and softball and will be for the next few months. Games are all thru the week mainly, so progress should continue in the ChopShop.
One final note: Pops has a mess of old T8 fixtures he is giving up on. Is it worth retrofitting these to LED for the tool room and the loft, or just buy new fixtures? Anyone done the ballast-less retrofits?
Lord Bless and enjoy!
J, N and R enjoying the space:
From the loft, south side:
From the loft north side:
Overall a very good weekend at the Compound. I ended up working Saturday for about 6 hours (my real job, lol) so time was cut short. But working in the service industry, that is just reality. I have been on call all my adult life, and likely always will be. Customers are important, without them, none of this is possible.
This weekend I decided to pause with construction, and begin to move some items around. The shop had become a huge mess from construction, and it was time to reclaim the space, and redeem the time. The first step was to put many items into the loft for both storage and for loft usage. This included the torpedo heaters (for the summer), the A/C system I need to get installed, 2 large 4 drawer filing cabinets, a couple desks (I had used as benches, but will become loft furniture as the kids love to draw and even come out and do homework while I work) and some sheet metal I had picked up from work (not sure what I will use it for long term, but it was too nice to let it go).
I also decided to move the items into the tool room. I began this last week, but in earnest moved almost everything in there this week. 2 sets of free standing shelves, wooden workbench, metal rolling "fab" bench, welders, and on and on. It is still just one temp light in there, so pictures are a bit tough. It seems a bit crowded in the tool room, but everything is close, and I believe it will work well for the types of projects I am currently doing. The fab bench can be rolled to the main floor and used out there.
Before anyone freaks out at the pics, the boys (J- shooting ball, N- near the ladder, and R- at the desk) are very comfortable on ladders, and I have taken extensive ladder safety, which I have passed along to them, and I keep a constant eye on them while they are in the loft. That said, railings or 1/2 walls will be going up soon, next, actually. I have even thought of a temp system, but want to be sure whatever I do will keep them safe, and not just provide a false sense of safety, which, in my opinion, is worse.
Sunday brought a little excitement while pops was over. I was moving the Hustler, and a mouse make an exit from the deck. With all the items moved around he had little place to go, so the "great white hunter" in me came out. My first reaction was to unholster the SD9 on my right hip, but with the concrete and steel, I quickly thought better of it. Grabbing a shovel, and with the faithful and skilled hunter Meeka (our black Golden doodle) present, I made a fool of myself and drove her crazy for 10 minutes or so. No dice and the mouse disappeared. The wise bull (Pops) took J over to his place to secure a few spring traps. "They can't resist peanut butter" he remarked as he placed the traps.
Of course, church was attended, and El Jefe's was eaten, I am a creature of habit. We also did a bit of landscaping in the front as the Mrs. planted some flowers in the built in beds.
This week is full of baseball and softball and will be for the next few months. Games are all thru the week mainly, so progress should continue in the ChopShop.
One final note: Pops has a mess of old T8 fixtures he is giving up on. Is it worth retrofitting these to LED for the tool room and the loft, or just buy new fixtures? Anyone done the ballast-less retrofits?
Lord Bless and enjoy!
J, N and R enjoying the space:
From the loft, south side:
From the loft north side:
OP
Big Daddy Chop Shop
Well-known member
Baseball season is upon us! A, J, N, and R are all playing this year, with the Mrs running the little league and M keeping score and umpiring some, its a full schedule. I am the resident maintenance man for the more technical aspects (ice maker, some electrical, etc). No games last night for our kids, but the Mrs, J and N spend about 3 hours trying to get diamonds dry enough for the scheduled games to play. Very dedicated!
I got home, grabbed M, A, and R and headed to the diamonds, got J and N and headed to El Jefe for dinner as the wife had to umpire 2 games. Umpires are getting tougher to find- I have a 2 fold theory: 1. High school kids who normally do this either are too busy themselves or just don't want to work, and 2. When we get good umpires (kids or adults) the fans (parents) harass them on every call to the point it just is not worth it. The Mrs carefully polices the harassment, as do other volunteers, and in fact, have put up material over the backstops so parents will not stand back there and bad mouth the umps. So sad, this is little league, not a Cubs game!
We got home, and I had a few items to take care of. I have a mouse in the ChopShop, and he is a slick one, stealing my bait 2 nights in a row. Tried some different traps, we shall see tonight. I also checked the sump pump since I had another .4" last night- its still chugging along! Seems that vermin will be an issue this year due to the mild winter. Rabbits are rampant, and so are the mice!
M saw a mouse in front of the house in broad daylight. I also saw it, and it then entered the house via the crawl vent- so I checked that out. I found a deficiency in the caulk around the vent, under it. The Previous owner caulked all the areas easily seem but the bottom was wide open! Frustrating, but easy fix.
While I was out and around, I decided to try to take some shots of the tool room. Forgive the mess and lack of light, it is obviously a work in progress still.
Facing East
Facing Northeast
Lastly- a pic of J pitching in his first "kid pitch" game from Monday. He did not get the W, but also didn't hit anyone or walk in any runs, a real accomplishment at the age of 9!
I got home, grabbed M, A, and R and headed to the diamonds, got J and N and headed to El Jefe for dinner as the wife had to umpire 2 games. Umpires are getting tougher to find- I have a 2 fold theory: 1. High school kids who normally do this either are too busy themselves or just don't want to work, and 2. When we get good umpires (kids or adults) the fans (parents) harass them on every call to the point it just is not worth it. The Mrs carefully polices the harassment, as do other volunteers, and in fact, have put up material over the backstops so parents will not stand back there and bad mouth the umps. So sad, this is little league, not a Cubs game!
We got home, and I had a few items to take care of. I have a mouse in the ChopShop, and he is a slick one, stealing my bait 2 nights in a row. Tried some different traps, we shall see tonight. I also checked the sump pump since I had another .4" last night- its still chugging along! Seems that vermin will be an issue this year due to the mild winter. Rabbits are rampant, and so are the mice!
M saw a mouse in front of the house in broad daylight. I also saw it, and it then entered the house via the crawl vent- so I checked that out. I found a deficiency in the caulk around the vent, under it. The Previous owner caulked all the areas easily seem but the bottom was wide open! Frustrating, but easy fix.
While I was out and around, I decided to try to take some shots of the tool room. Forgive the mess and lack of light, it is obviously a work in progress still.
Facing East
Facing Northeast
Lastly- a pic of J pitching in his first "kid pitch" game from Monday. He did not get the W, but also didn't hit anyone or walk in any runs, a real accomplishment at the age of 9!
OP
Big Daddy Chop Shop
Well-known member
Happy belated Mother's Day to all the GJ moms out there!
It was a very good weekend at the compound.
Saturday was a lot of chores around the house. Basic cleaning and whatnot with the Mrs. I also put down about 8 gallons of round-up, did some trimming, was able to help pops by weekeating his front ditch. I got to the shop for about 30 minutes, and was able to get yard tools hung by the mower. The evening brought the In-laws over for a mothers day cookout. Steaks all around, and then we had some pitch and catch as well as fielding practice for J, M, and A. My arm was jello afterwords, but totally worth it!
Sunday we headed off to Church to worship the Lord and to honor the moms He gave us. It was a great service. The Mrs. took J, N and A to an Indianapolis Indians game after church, so R and M and I went to El Jefe for lunch, it was packed!
He headed home, and I went to the ChopShop with one goal in mind. R came too, and he had a good time just hanging out in the loft. My goal was to get the bracing moved from the loft to another area. I wanted to wait for a calm day, and to be hones, I was not looking forward to what I knew would be many, many trips up and down the ladder.
Moving the bracing was not as bad as I thought it would be, but it still was not a lot of fun. The worst part was attaching it at the peak, 17' from the ground, with just an extension ladder. Oh well, its done, I was safe, and all went well. Having proper safety gear makes a difference. I am very glad to have what I need.
Sunday night brought evening church. The Mrs, J, N and A did not make it as the game went into extra innings.
Overall, not much done in the Chop Chop, but that is ok. I feel like getting the bracing moved is a milestone, I can now begin to finish the loft out.
It was a very good weekend at the compound.
Saturday was a lot of chores around the house. Basic cleaning and whatnot with the Mrs. I also put down about 8 gallons of round-up, did some trimming, was able to help pops by weekeating his front ditch. I got to the shop for about 30 minutes, and was able to get yard tools hung by the mower. The evening brought the In-laws over for a mothers day cookout. Steaks all around, and then we had some pitch and catch as well as fielding practice for J, M, and A. My arm was jello afterwords, but totally worth it!
Sunday we headed off to Church to worship the Lord and to honor the moms He gave us. It was a great service. The Mrs. took J, N and A to an Indianapolis Indians game after church, so R and M and I went to El Jefe for lunch, it was packed!
He headed home, and I went to the ChopShop with one goal in mind. R came too, and he had a good time just hanging out in the loft. My goal was to get the bracing moved from the loft to another area. I wanted to wait for a calm day, and to be hones, I was not looking forward to what I knew would be many, many trips up and down the ladder.
Moving the bracing was not as bad as I thought it would be, but it still was not a lot of fun. The worst part was attaching it at the peak, 17' from the ground, with just an extension ladder. Oh well, its done, I was safe, and all went well. Having proper safety gear makes a difference. I am very glad to have what I need.
Sunday night brought evening church. The Mrs, J, N and A did not make it as the game went into extra innings.
Overall, not much done in the Chop Chop, but that is ok. I feel like getting the bracing moved is a milestone, I can now begin to finish the loft out.
OP
Big Daddy Chop Shop
Well-known member
I also came up with an Idea for a logo for the ChopShop. I hope I can get it to come thru here:
I wanted something to represent the family, and I tend to think I am funnier and more clever than I really am, but Let me know what you all think.
I wanted something to represent the family, and I tend to think I am funnier and more clever than I really am, but Let me know what you all think.
OP
Big Daddy Chop Shop
Well-known member
Did some work around the Compound last night. We have a small grove of trees that had gotten a bit out of control with weeds below, so went out and cleared some brush. I would like to say that the 3 blade brush cutter that Stihl makes is AWESOME! It clears grass, thorns, and even fairly large saplings.
I am scheduled to be off Friday so I hope to get some work done in the ChopShop. I have PreSchool graduation for my youngest as well. 4 baseball/ softball games in the next 2 days if the rain holds off.
I am scheduled to be off Friday so I hope to get some work done in the ChopShop. I have PreSchool graduation for my youngest as well. 4 baseball/ softball games in the next 2 days if the rain holds off.
OP
Big Daddy Chop Shop
Well-known member
Made some good progress this weekend:
Friday: Went to R's preschool graduation- that was a neat little program.Then Dropped the Bersa off at my local gunsmith, and picked up groceries so the Mrs didn't have to. Worked in the ChopShop some, building walls for the loft rooms.
Saturday: We had our nephew (about 10 months old) for the biggest part of the day, but still went out and worked on the walls some more.
Sunday: Church morning and evening, and ChopShop between!
So here are the pics. N photobombed the one shot, but he loves the loft and is a great helper, so I included it, lol!
If you notice to the right of the ball goal, there is a section framed with 4x4 studs. This is a 4' wide gate to allow items to be put in the loft with the duct lift. It opens in, and the sheeting acts as jambs on both sides and bottom. This makes accidents less likely, as does the bolt pinning it at the top and traditional floor bolt fit at the bottom. I also designed it to be tough to open fit wise, which I feel is the best as it will be seldom used.
I still need to frame the east and west storage room walls, but I am out of framing lumber (never thought that would happen- need to scrounge or, gasp, buy some). The plan is 2 large pieces of Masonite on these walls as white board and projector screens for the loft. Still need to sheet the south east exterior storage room wall.
FYI, I mortised the gate hinges with the Bosch Oscillating Multitool- beats a utility knife and chisel for speed, and pretty decent on accuracy too!
I hope you all enjoy!
Overall, quite a lot accomplished!
Friday: Went to R's preschool graduation- that was a neat little program.Then Dropped the Bersa off at my local gunsmith, and picked up groceries so the Mrs didn't have to. Worked in the ChopShop some, building walls for the loft rooms.
Saturday: We had our nephew (about 10 months old) for the biggest part of the day, but still went out and worked on the walls some more.
Sunday: Church morning and evening, and ChopShop between!
So here are the pics. N photobombed the one shot, but he loves the loft and is a great helper, so I included it, lol!
If you notice to the right of the ball goal, there is a section framed with 4x4 studs. This is a 4' wide gate to allow items to be put in the loft with the duct lift. It opens in, and the sheeting acts as jambs on both sides and bottom. This makes accidents less likely, as does the bolt pinning it at the top and traditional floor bolt fit at the bottom. I also designed it to be tough to open fit wise, which I feel is the best as it will be seldom used.
I still need to frame the east and west storage room walls, but I am out of framing lumber (never thought that would happen- need to scrounge or, gasp, buy some). The plan is 2 large pieces of Masonite on these walls as white board and projector screens for the loft. Still need to sheet the south east exterior storage room wall.
FYI, I mortised the gate hinges with the Bosch Oscillating Multitool- beats a utility knife and chisel for speed, and pretty decent on accuracy too!
I hope you all enjoy!
Overall, quite a lot accomplished!
OP
Big Daddy Chop Shop
Well-known member
Oh, and I also picked up 3 more old shop lites from Pops and did LED conversion on them. I am pretty happy, but the only issue I have had is all these are cheap Walmart fixtures. Here is what that means:
I ordered retrofit bulbs that work with or without ballast. For shunted tombstones apparently (not in description, but fount it to be the case).
The ballast are toast, that is why Pops gave up on them. However, these are a split ballast design, with a transformer in each end and a capacitor (I believe) in each end and a circuit board in the middle. Rip all that out (the ends are painfully tough to disassemble) and basically start from scratch. Oh well, free fixtures are tough to beat.
Here is the question now, since there is no ballast, no transformer, no real heat, can I flush mount these to the wood joist you think?
I ordered retrofit bulbs that work with or without ballast. For shunted tombstones apparently (not in description, but fount it to be the case).
The ballast are toast, that is why Pops gave up on them. However, these are a split ballast design, with a transformer in each end and a capacitor (I believe) in each end and a circuit board in the middle. Rip all that out (the ends are painfully tough to disassemble) and basically start from scratch. Oh well, free fixtures are tough to beat.
Here is the question now, since there is no ballast, no transformer, no real heat, can I flush mount these to the wood joist you think?
Finallygotit
ALLIANCE MEMBER
If there is no ballast and you have the bulbs wired direct, I see no reason not to flush mount them.
OP
Big Daddy Chop Shop
Well-known member
Thank you sir, I agree. They are just temporarily hanging now in the tool room, but am very impressed. We shall see how they last. Love your Odd Acres as well, great read!
Finallygotit
ALLIANCE MEMBER
Thank you for following along on my ODD journey.
OP
Big Daddy Chop Shop
Well-known member
I was not able to spend as much time in the shop as anticipated, but I still was able to get several items crossed off the list, so that felt really good.
It was a great weekend, and we spent much time as a family reflecting on our freedom, and honoring those who gave their last full measure of devotion. To the men and women who gave all in defense of our Freedom, We owe a debt which we can never repay!
The days all ran together a bit, as they often do on long weekends, lol. I was able to rid myself of the warehouse racking I picked up over a year ago, that was my first attempt at a loft. A co-worker was able to make use, so I unloaded it, moved the items to the loft, and broke it down. I did lose some storage space, however, the shop feel much larger as it encroached on the entry door and was very tall. We loaded it on his equipment trailer, spent a few hours shooting the breeze (he's also an old farmer, so he can hold up his end of a conversation, lol).
I worked on driving nails out of salvage lumber, and also finished the "face wall" of the loft. I failed to get pics.
I also framed and sheeted the walls of the 2 storage rooms. The walls have a large area that can be used as white board, the kids are very excited about this. Still need to get doors made. I plan to do a "hidden door" system. I think the kids will enjoy that. I built in 2 old filing cabinets I purchased some time ago. I think they are from the 60's as they were originally orange, have really smooth ball bearing slides and slightly rounded corners. High quality for sure.
I further made some storage for long stock in the tool room (again, no pics).
I also began working on the "ChopShop ShipStair", wow, that is a mouthful! LOL. I was blessed to reclaim some barely used treated lumber in 6x6x12 and 2x12x12, so the stir will be free. I laid out a stringer in 2x4 to get the angles correct, and the stair spacing. I was able to cut both stringers before dinner Monday evening. After dinner, I hit balls to M and J. They love the practice, and I love the time with them.
Now, onto a decision I came to this morning. If you think less of me for this, I understand, but I feel I must put it in writing so I will follow thru, and be accountable.
I will be making some changes in the ChopShop. It has come to my attention (thru conviction) that I have "borrowed" a LOT of tools and items from work, and to be honest, I have become far too complacent with this. I call the tools mine, and, well basically, I decided before it becomes a further issue, they need to be returned right away. I want to be blameless. It has been very nice to have some of these items around the shop, and to be honest, they are not missed at work one bit, but that is far from the point. I want to be sure I know, and my kids know, and basically everyone knows, that I have a clear line, what is mine, and what is not. I have let that line get more than fuzzy, and for that I am ashamed. Getting these items sorted, and returned is the top priority in the ChopShop.
Regardless, here are a few pictures from the weekend. I will attempt to get a few more this evening.
It was a great weekend, and we spent much time as a family reflecting on our freedom, and honoring those who gave their last full measure of devotion. To the men and women who gave all in defense of our Freedom, We owe a debt which we can never repay!
The days all ran together a bit, as they often do on long weekends, lol. I was able to rid myself of the warehouse racking I picked up over a year ago, that was my first attempt at a loft. A co-worker was able to make use, so I unloaded it, moved the items to the loft, and broke it down. I did lose some storage space, however, the shop feel much larger as it encroached on the entry door and was very tall. We loaded it on his equipment trailer, spent a few hours shooting the breeze (he's also an old farmer, so he can hold up his end of a conversation, lol).
I worked on driving nails out of salvage lumber, and also finished the "face wall" of the loft. I failed to get pics.
I also framed and sheeted the walls of the 2 storage rooms. The walls have a large area that can be used as white board, the kids are very excited about this. Still need to get doors made. I plan to do a "hidden door" system. I think the kids will enjoy that. I built in 2 old filing cabinets I purchased some time ago. I think they are from the 60's as they were originally orange, have really smooth ball bearing slides and slightly rounded corners. High quality for sure.
I further made some storage for long stock in the tool room (again, no pics).
I also began working on the "ChopShop ShipStair", wow, that is a mouthful! LOL. I was blessed to reclaim some barely used treated lumber in 6x6x12 and 2x12x12, so the stir will be free. I laid out a stringer in 2x4 to get the angles correct, and the stair spacing. I was able to cut both stringers before dinner Monday evening. After dinner, I hit balls to M and J. They love the practice, and I love the time with them.
Now, onto a decision I came to this morning. If you think less of me for this, I understand, but I feel I must put it in writing so I will follow thru, and be accountable.
I will be making some changes in the ChopShop. It has come to my attention (thru conviction) that I have "borrowed" a LOT of tools and items from work, and to be honest, I have become far too complacent with this. I call the tools mine, and, well basically, I decided before it becomes a further issue, they need to be returned right away. I want to be blameless. It has been very nice to have some of these items around the shop, and to be honest, they are not missed at work one bit, but that is far from the point. I want to be sure I know, and my kids know, and basically everyone knows, that I have a clear line, what is mine, and what is not. I have let that line get more than fuzzy, and for that I am ashamed. Getting these items sorted, and returned is the top priority in the ChopShop.
Regardless, here are a few pictures from the weekend. I will attempt to get a few more this evening.
sean Buick 76
Well-known member
Good idea about the tools from work, teaching your kids the right way to go!
OP
Big Daddy Chop Shop
Well-known member
Thank you for the encouragement. Often times, this sort of thing doesn't start out to be what it becomes. Perhaps its a "loan" or a "just for the weekend" and before you know it, it is hard to remember what is the companies, and what is mine. Not a place I want to be. I want to be blameless, and with this, I have not been.
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OP
Big Daddy Chop Shop
Well-known member
No pictures last night. To be honest the ChopShop is a wreck. When I got home, I went out and began sorting items, and honestly, it took several hours to sort and get loaded. I gave little regard for my items, the goal was to accomplish what I had set out to. J, N and R were out with me, and they wanted to know what was going on. So, humbly, I explained. Then M and A came home. Again, what is going on- Explain again. Not something I want to ever have to do again- so I will just keep clearly defined lines from here out.
I have a couple large items that will go on the trailer tonight. Yes, a truckload and another trailer load to go.......
I asked myself- why am I telling this part of the story???? Well, After reading a lot of threads, I see a lot of folks with a lot of stuff. That is awesome, nothing wrong with that at all. However, I think I got a bit jealous, a bit greedy. I crossed lines. I have read a few other threads where I have seen guys getting stuff from work as well. Now, to clarify, I do get lots of scrap, and even some nice items from work that they trash. And maybe I am the only one who has crossed lines.
Regardless, here is why- 2 fold- I am a Christian, and when I mess up, I owe it to my Lord to make it right. I have shown my shop on here, so I feel I need to share this portion on here as well. Number 2- I am pretty sure I am not alone. I am sure other guys have been where I am. I want them to know and see that its not the one with the most toys who wins, or the biggest, nicest shop, or the best outfit shop- nope. For some of us, it is a struggle, and that's ok.
One last item, and I will move past this: When I told the Mrs. what was going on, she said, "so do you want a pat on the back?" Nope. That is not why I told the kids, or her, or share it here. I messed up. Some of it intentional, some not, some a lapse of judgement, but whatever the reason, I own it. I am not looking for anything other than to do the right thing and encourage others to do the same, and hopefully forgiveness.
I have a couple large items that will go on the trailer tonight. Yes, a truckload and another trailer load to go.......
I asked myself- why am I telling this part of the story???? Well, After reading a lot of threads, I see a lot of folks with a lot of stuff. That is awesome, nothing wrong with that at all. However, I think I got a bit jealous, a bit greedy. I crossed lines. I have read a few other threads where I have seen guys getting stuff from work as well. Now, to clarify, I do get lots of scrap, and even some nice items from work that they trash. And maybe I am the only one who has crossed lines.
Regardless, here is why- 2 fold- I am a Christian, and when I mess up, I owe it to my Lord to make it right. I have shown my shop on here, so I feel I need to share this portion on here as well. Number 2- I am pretty sure I am not alone. I am sure other guys have been where I am. I want them to know and see that its not the one with the most toys who wins, or the biggest, nicest shop, or the best outfit shop- nope. For some of us, it is a struggle, and that's ok.
One last item, and I will move past this: When I told the Mrs. what was going on, she said, "so do you want a pat on the back?" Nope. That is not why I told the kids, or her, or share it here. I messed up. Some of it intentional, some not, some a lapse of judgement, but whatever the reason, I own it. I am not looking for anything other than to do the right thing and encourage others to do the same, and hopefully forgiveness.
OP
Big Daddy Chop Shop
Well-known member
I ended up taking off last Friday for the coveted 3 day work week, LOL. Got a bit of work done in the ChopShop, but also had some work to do around the house.
On the house, I found the end of the eve had rotted and fallen apart. The PO had a nice vision, all cedar soffits and eves, and honestly, it should have held up. Somehow a bird got in, built a HUGE nest, blocked the vents, and the moisture rotted it out. I have got to do a better job of taking pics, but oh well. I had the materials, and it was about a 2 hour repair. By the time I slept in, and piddled around, it was after lunch before I went to the Shop.
I had a hard deadline to get certain items wrapped up in the ChopShop. M is having a birthday this week (she will be 14) (as does N- he will be 7) and she wants to use the "party barn", lol!
The focus is to get the stair complete and the loft usable, and do a general clean up by Saturday night 6/10.
I worked on the stair Friday and Saturday. I had never built a stair before, and I didn't know anyone who had done a "ship stair" so I pulled info off the old interwebs, and got to it. If I must say so, it turned out very nice. R was my official tester, checking each tread as it went up. J had a buddy over, and once the stair was complete, they were doing some "ninja warrior" stuff off the back of it, and on the big yellow beam. I will not post any pics of that, as it would likely give some of you all heart failure. But the boys all love it, and we let them be boys. I'd rather they do this than sit and play video games or stare at a phone all day.
I was able to get the storage rooms doors completed as well. This was a project that took WAY too long. I wanted the doors to be "hidden" a bit, as I do have visions of using the barn for an escape room for the kids parties someday. Plus I think its cool! They are not totally hidden, and the latching systems are temporary, but its progress!
Really, this was about all that was accomplished. The 2 doors were worked, reworked, and re-reworked. Stupid really. Basically poor planning and poorer execution. My only real excuse is no power up there yet so many trips up and down the stairs, and its about 15-25* warmer in the loft even with the fan running. It was well over 100* at some points.
Oh, and yes, I cleaned up the tools, and did rearrange the tool room- recovering from last week. I will get some pictures of that. That killed about 1/2- 2/3 of a day.
I also got the ball goal mounted to the wall (no issues with this as I feared there might be- no wall shake, or anything)
I still have so very much to do, even before the party Saturday. Lots of cut offs to deal with (hate to toss, and it is scrap, so tough to burn with nails in it), and a good general clean up. Storing all the materials (likely go behind the golf cart parking area), steel storage (tool room in between the floor joist ala the Asylum- some of this is done already.
It was a very good weekend at the compound overall, N helped Pops with some chores, rode the quad some, did some on-the-fly repairs to the golf cart- all in a weekend at the Compound! Church 2x Sunday- blessed to have been able to perform special music, "Proud to be an American" was the selection. Really one of my favorites, and makes me choke up each time I hear it.
Full week at the diamonds ahead. Lots to do, and less time everyday!
Enjoy the pics (if you are still out there, lol)!
Lord Bless-
On the house, I found the end of the eve had rotted and fallen apart. The PO had a nice vision, all cedar soffits and eves, and honestly, it should have held up. Somehow a bird got in, built a HUGE nest, blocked the vents, and the moisture rotted it out. I have got to do a better job of taking pics, but oh well. I had the materials, and it was about a 2 hour repair. By the time I slept in, and piddled around, it was after lunch before I went to the Shop.
I had a hard deadline to get certain items wrapped up in the ChopShop. M is having a birthday this week (she will be 14) (as does N- he will be 7) and she wants to use the "party barn", lol!
The focus is to get the stair complete and the loft usable, and do a general clean up by Saturday night 6/10.
I worked on the stair Friday and Saturday. I had never built a stair before, and I didn't know anyone who had done a "ship stair" so I pulled info off the old interwebs, and got to it. If I must say so, it turned out very nice. R was my official tester, checking each tread as it went up. J had a buddy over, and once the stair was complete, they were doing some "ninja warrior" stuff off the back of it, and on the big yellow beam. I will not post any pics of that, as it would likely give some of you all heart failure. But the boys all love it, and we let them be boys. I'd rather they do this than sit and play video games or stare at a phone all day.
I was able to get the storage rooms doors completed as well. This was a project that took WAY too long. I wanted the doors to be "hidden" a bit, as I do have visions of using the barn for an escape room for the kids parties someday. Plus I think its cool! They are not totally hidden, and the latching systems are temporary, but its progress!
Really, this was about all that was accomplished. The 2 doors were worked, reworked, and re-reworked. Stupid really. Basically poor planning and poorer execution. My only real excuse is no power up there yet so many trips up and down the stairs, and its about 15-25* warmer in the loft even with the fan running. It was well over 100* at some points.
Oh, and yes, I cleaned up the tools, and did rearrange the tool room- recovering from last week. I will get some pictures of that. That killed about 1/2- 2/3 of a day.
I also got the ball goal mounted to the wall (no issues with this as I feared there might be- no wall shake, or anything)
I still have so very much to do, even before the party Saturday. Lots of cut offs to deal with (hate to toss, and it is scrap, so tough to burn with nails in it), and a good general clean up. Storing all the materials (likely go behind the golf cart parking area), steel storage (tool room in between the floor joist ala the Asylum- some of this is done already.
It was a very good weekend at the compound overall, N helped Pops with some chores, rode the quad some, did some on-the-fly repairs to the golf cart- all in a weekend at the Compound! Church 2x Sunday- blessed to have been able to perform special music, "Proud to be an American" was the selection. Really one of my favorites, and makes me choke up each time I hear it.
Full week at the diamonds ahead. Lots to do, and less time everyday!
Enjoy the pics (if you are still out there, lol)!
Lord Bless-
OP
Big Daddy Chop Shop
Well-known member
One other item I will share. I love wildlife, and especially around the house. We have many deer that are in the area, and they are very safe as neither pops, nor I, nor any of the neighbors close by allow hunting. I love to hear the frogs at the neighbors pond, and the locusts, see the lightening bugs fill the evening air. The skunks, well, they are pretty, but they can keep their distance. We have woodpeckers, squirrels, crawdads possums, bald Eagle visits, and so much more. Its all something I get to share with the kids, and its how I grew up, so it is very cool. In fact, even with the highs being at 90, we still have the house opened up and the A/c has not run- just to hear the critters of an evening, and have the cool night air come thru the house....ahhhhh!
I wanted to share a picture of the latest find- "BOXY" the turtle. I about got him mowing, glad I didn't! I have always loved turtles. I stopped just the other day to move a large one out of the road before he got hit. This little fellow here was at the back of the Compound. The boys wanted to keep him, but once I explained the fact that he/she has a great life already, and that he/she is on our property, we will likely see it again. We have since seen "BOXY" (they still named it) a few more times. They have named only one other wild animal, "HARRY" the bald eagle, and his mate "Harrietta". We have seen them together, pretty cool! The pictures are less than great though. Probably silly, but some of you may enjoy.
I wanted to share a picture of the latest find- "BOXY" the turtle. I about got him mowing, glad I didn't! I have always loved turtles. I stopped just the other day to move a large one out of the road before he got hit. This little fellow here was at the back of the Compound. The boys wanted to keep him, but once I explained the fact that he/she has a great life already, and that he/she is on our property, we will likely see it again. We have since seen "BOXY" (they still named it) a few more times. They have named only one other wild animal, "HARRY" the bald eagle, and his mate "Harrietta". We have seen them together, pretty cool! The pictures are less than great though. Probably silly, but some of you may enjoy.
sean Buick 76
Well-known member
Professional job on the stairs! Very cool to have a turtle in the yard!! The kids must like that...
OP
Big Daddy Chop Shop
Well-known member
The stairs are "OK" for a first attempt. I am glad they aren't int he house, lol. Thanks For stopping by!
OP
Big Daddy Chop Shop
Well-known member
Wife sent me this just a bit ago. Fence is between Pops and us. This little feller is just barely dry I bet! Like I said, love these little fellows! So glad the kids get to see this stuff growing up. And just for the record, I love venison, and about every other animal, but I love seeing them more.
OP
Big Daddy Chop Shop
Well-known member
No games last evening for our kiddos, so got to spend some time in the ChopShop cleaning up for the festivities this weekend. Construction has been on-going for a LONG time it seems, so this was really just phase one of the cleanup!
Got the cut offs and scraps hauled out. almost a full pick up load. WOW! stored all dimensional lumber between the floor joists, and all sheet goods were stacked behind the golf cart. M assisted with the load out of scraps. J came out for a bit too, as did N and R. They helped sweep and pick up a bit.
I was able to get the "bar" attached to the wall. You will see it in the pictures, it looks like kitchen cabinets, but was actually piece built by the PO, and was in the garage at the house. It was a constant catch-all there, and a haven for mice, as well as impeding egress to my truck (door swung right into it). I have been using it as a bench in the shop to cut long stock, and decided to finally mount it. It is only about 14" deep, and needs some love, but will serve 2 purposes- 1 bar/ buffet for entertaining in the barn, and 2, a work bench that takes virtually zero floor space since it fits between the steel truss system.
I do need an opinion on an item. I picked up the office chairs (the 3 retro ones especially) with a mind to put them in the loft. My only concern at this point is if the kids get rolling around, and it heads to the stairs. The stairs are walled off except the opening for the stair itself (one side open). Do you think its a huge concern? I really don't want a door at the top with the stair being a ship stair, its very steep, and I think that would cause more issues in the long run.
I have also included some pictures of the tool room since the mass exodus. I need to get a few things, but overall, I like the extra space, and a clear conscience. This also allows me to move in the wood working tools (and get them on wheeled carts). I would not do wood work in here, its really only for light bench work and storage. The tools would be moved to the main shop floor for project use.
So at the end of the night, I was pretty happy, and tired! I shot a few hoops with J and called it a night. I can really begin to see my vision come together now. So very blessed!
Main shop floor looking Northeast. New Bar/Buffet/Bench in this shot
Looking due East. It looks so much bigger!
Looking Southeast. Still need to sheet in where the bolt bins once resided, and pull some power to the loft and tool room thru here.
Tool room looking Northeast. Bench in the foreground is a mess, and the lights are still on extension cords. Need to rearrange them a bit as well. and will likely flush mount now that they are LED.
Looking Southeast. Need to get this light going. Could use a box or 2 more, or perhaps just a re-stack. The silver one is pretty sad- plywood shelves and all. Poor people have poor ways, lol.
Looking due South. The shelving unit hold some of the larger cased power tools. Also my chargers. Yes, the space in that corner between the boxes and the shelf is lost. There is a truss there for the building. May try to rework this area a bit to make better use.
Got the cut offs and scraps hauled out. almost a full pick up load. WOW! stored all dimensional lumber between the floor joists, and all sheet goods were stacked behind the golf cart. M assisted with the load out of scraps. J came out for a bit too, as did N and R. They helped sweep and pick up a bit.
I was able to get the "bar" attached to the wall. You will see it in the pictures, it looks like kitchen cabinets, but was actually piece built by the PO, and was in the garage at the house. It was a constant catch-all there, and a haven for mice, as well as impeding egress to my truck (door swung right into it). I have been using it as a bench in the shop to cut long stock, and decided to finally mount it. It is only about 14" deep, and needs some love, but will serve 2 purposes- 1 bar/ buffet for entertaining in the barn, and 2, a work bench that takes virtually zero floor space since it fits between the steel truss system.
I do need an opinion on an item. I picked up the office chairs (the 3 retro ones especially) with a mind to put them in the loft. My only concern at this point is if the kids get rolling around, and it heads to the stairs. The stairs are walled off except the opening for the stair itself (one side open). Do you think its a huge concern? I really don't want a door at the top with the stair being a ship stair, its very steep, and I think that would cause more issues in the long run.
I have also included some pictures of the tool room since the mass exodus. I need to get a few things, but overall, I like the extra space, and a clear conscience. This also allows me to move in the wood working tools (and get them on wheeled carts). I would not do wood work in here, its really only for light bench work and storage. The tools would be moved to the main shop floor for project use.
So at the end of the night, I was pretty happy, and tired! I shot a few hoops with J and called it a night. I can really begin to see my vision come together now. So very blessed!
Main shop floor looking Northeast. New Bar/Buffet/Bench in this shot
Looking due East. It looks so much bigger!
Looking Southeast. Still need to sheet in where the bolt bins once resided, and pull some power to the loft and tool room thru here.
Tool room looking Northeast. Bench in the foreground is a mess, and the lights are still on extension cords. Need to rearrange them a bit as well. and will likely flush mount now that they are LED.
Looking Southeast. Need to get this light going. Could use a box or 2 more, or perhaps just a re-stack. The silver one is pretty sad- plywood shelves and all. Poor people have poor ways, lol.
Looking due South. The shelving unit hold some of the larger cased power tools. Also my chargers. Yes, the space in that corner between the boxes and the shelf is lost. There is a truss there for the building. May try to rework this area a bit to make better use.
OP
Big Daddy Chop Shop
Well-known member
No huge update here, it has been a busy few weekends. Birthday party was "smashing" as in the ceiling fan got smashed by a basketball- erg. The really irritating part is the parents of the kid that did it (accidentally) saw it happen and never even made an offer to help out. I never would take money, ever, as kids will be kids, but at least offer! Anyway, I got the fan fixed, all is well.
The kids loved the loft, and rode the golf cart and quad all night long. (I gave the quad rides as did a few other parents, no kids driving a 570 that I have made just a couple payments on, lol.
In other news, the wife and M are going on a missionary trip to New Mexico in about 3 weeks, so I will be off with the other 4. I have big plans to get lots done, Lord willing. The list is growing almost daily, trying to keep it doable, we shall see.
I have made some progress, moved the air compressor to the tool room. Made some other minor changes. To be honest, after the birthday clean up, it has been hard to get motivated again. I had everything rocking and firing, and now its all put away and the shop is clean. IDK, just kind of in a funk about it I guess.
I need to get some electric pulled, and lots of other things, then the remainder of the sheeting can go up. I want to re-run the surface mounted electrical to get it hidden as it looks so much cleaner that way. Still need to finish the loft as well. Recently I was given 2 flat screen TVs that were a result of an upgrade. They work wonderfully and are rather large (50 and 42") but are older ones and are STUPID heavy. I plan to mount one in the loft for the kids as well as a sound system I have pieced together (they LOVE music). I plan to upgrade to the 50" main shop floor, as I presently have a 42" out there. While doing this, I will relocate the TV as well.
No pics in this update, and honestly, I think I am just documenting this stuff for myself it seems.
The kids loved the loft, and rode the golf cart and quad all night long. (I gave the quad rides as did a few other parents, no kids driving a 570 that I have made just a couple payments on, lol.
In other news, the wife and M are going on a missionary trip to New Mexico in about 3 weeks, so I will be off with the other 4. I have big plans to get lots done, Lord willing. The list is growing almost daily, trying to keep it doable, we shall see.
I have made some progress, moved the air compressor to the tool room. Made some other minor changes. To be honest, after the birthday clean up, it has been hard to get motivated again. I had everything rocking and firing, and now its all put away and the shop is clean. IDK, just kind of in a funk about it I guess.
I need to get some electric pulled, and lots of other things, then the remainder of the sheeting can go up. I want to re-run the surface mounted electrical to get it hidden as it looks so much cleaner that way. Still need to finish the loft as well. Recently I was given 2 flat screen TVs that were a result of an upgrade. They work wonderfully and are rather large (50 and 42") but are older ones and are STUPID heavy. I plan to mount one in the loft for the kids as well as a sound system I have pieced together (they LOVE music). I plan to upgrade to the 50" main shop floor, as I presently have a 42" out there. While doing this, I will relocate the TV as well.
No pics in this update, and honestly, I think I am just documenting this stuff for myself it seems.
OP
Big Daddy Chop Shop
Well-known member
It has been a while since I made an update, this well may be the last- its been 28 days since the last comment, and so, if none are made moving forward it will be the end.
The Mrs. and M got back home Saturday from a mission trip to Coyote Canyon in NM. Praise the Lord, 9 souls found Jesus!
While they were spreading seeds, I was off work to care for the other 4. I did not accomplish all I set out too, but that is fine. We had a blast!
J played in 2 travel baseball tournaments, he was picked up a few weeks ago by a team. He loves to play and they let him play lots of positions, so he is loving that. This past weekend, he played all but SS, LF and RF.
We got the usual chores done- laundry, dishes, etc. Had some unexpected fun (new project, "minor" snake issue) and still nearly completed the list!
Outside the barn:
Scrapped and painted the LP tank. Boys did great. A helped scrape, but bailed on the painting, spending the night at Nana's. Purple is her color, so we did a bit of that for her.
We picked up a new project. I wasn't really looking for a musclecar, but a very solid 1971 LeMans found me. I look forward to getting this one back together. 350(pontiac)/ powerglide, pretty basic car. Solid, should be fun.
In the Shop:
I finished the electric in the tool room and the mower/ storage room. 2 lighting circuits, 3 receptacle circuits, added a ceiling fan that we took down in the master bedroom. I also sheeted the inside of the tool room with slat and peg board. I sheeted the wall where the tool room "bolt bins" had previously resided, and metal sheeted behind the corn stove. i built a "barn door" for the tool room too. I added a 50" flatscreen with HDMI splitter so I can watch TV in the tool room and the main shop at the same time. The kids say its just like "BW's" lol. I have decided for now to not paint. I am pretty tired from the "buildout" of the shop, so, although there is more that could be done, this is it for now.
I am sure I am missing a lot. The loft still needs electric, decorations need to go back up, but I am over the build, so it is time to step back and work on the LeMans for a while.
The Mrs. and M got back home Saturday from a mission trip to Coyote Canyon in NM. Praise the Lord, 9 souls found Jesus!
While they were spreading seeds, I was off work to care for the other 4. I did not accomplish all I set out too, but that is fine. We had a blast!
J played in 2 travel baseball tournaments, he was picked up a few weeks ago by a team. He loves to play and they let him play lots of positions, so he is loving that. This past weekend, he played all but SS, LF and RF.
We got the usual chores done- laundry, dishes, etc. Had some unexpected fun (new project, "minor" snake issue) and still nearly completed the list!
Outside the barn:
Scrapped and painted the LP tank. Boys did great. A helped scrape, but bailed on the painting, spending the night at Nana's. Purple is her color, so we did a bit of that for her.
We picked up a new project. I wasn't really looking for a musclecar, but a very solid 1971 LeMans found me. I look forward to getting this one back together. 350(pontiac)/ powerglide, pretty basic car. Solid, should be fun.
In the Shop:
I finished the electric in the tool room and the mower/ storage room. 2 lighting circuits, 3 receptacle circuits, added a ceiling fan that we took down in the master bedroom. I also sheeted the inside of the tool room with slat and peg board. I sheeted the wall where the tool room "bolt bins" had previously resided, and metal sheeted behind the corn stove. i built a "barn door" for the tool room too. I added a 50" flatscreen with HDMI splitter so I can watch TV in the tool room and the main shop at the same time. The kids say its just like "BW's" lol. I have decided for now to not paint. I am pretty tired from the "buildout" of the shop, so, although there is more that could be done, this is it for now.
I am sure I am missing a lot. The loft still needs electric, decorations need to go back up, but I am over the build, so it is time to step back and work on the LeMans for a while.
OP
Big Daddy Chop Shop
Well-known member
OP
Big Daddy Chop Shop
Well-known member
I totally hate it when folks start a build thread and leave it hanging without any updates for over a year, don't you??
Well, sometimes there are reasons, and good, bad or otherwise, I have mine. I have been quietly working for the past year and 3 months, off and on, slowly making progress. I had honestly about forgotten about the thread, but I also did remember how much fun it was on here and how much good info I have gotten.
I wanted to give a brief update on my personal life as well.
As of my last update, the Mrs had just returned from her mission trip with M. Just a few short weeks after that happened, a miracle occurred. after 6 years of Praying and asking the Lord to bless us with just one more child, HE DID! Gavin "Yogi" Samuel was born on April 9, 2018. He is now #6, and we can't imagine life without him.
Also since my last update, I have changed positions at work (now a construction Project Manager) and have taken a side gig- so to speak. I am the praise leader at our church and also bass player.
Along with adding Yogi to the family, I have bought what many describe as my "midlife crisis"- 2018 Mustang GT. I purchased this car just a few months ago. It was on a Wednesday. On the Friday of that same week, the Mrs loaded up Yogi and R, and drove that brand spanking new Mustang from Indiana to Coyote Canyon, AZ to return to share the gospel with the Navajo nation! M went again as well, but she rode the bus. So the "new" Mustang had 3500 miles on it within 2 weeks, lol. Below is a picture of it on the reservation.
The last year has not been all good news. This past spring, as my dads health continued to decline, I got a call from him one morning. He needed to go to the hospital. Keep in mind, we share a property line, and we have watched him decline over the last few years, but he refused to seek treatment. I got to his house and found him, unable to get out of bed, and super frail. After a couple trips to the ER (long story) and a good diagnosis, he has advanced stage Parkinson's. He went thru about 4 weeks of rehab, and is now medicated, and doing much better. He has even returned to work- he is a real hero to me.
Now for an update on the Chop Shop:
The Chop Shop rarely sees a car these days- mainly basketballs and volleyballs, my home office is in the loft (more on that later) and also serves as the area to rebuild and refinish basses. I have changed up the area that was originally slated to be parking for the quad, and the golf cart under the loft. It is now a wood shop, enclosed to contain the dust.
I have finally made good on a promise I made to the kids, the "loft" is a pretty cool hang out area with large white boards, storage areas, a couch, TV with separate DVD player (for their shows) or they can watch what dad is watching down stairs thanks to HDMI splitters. The fridge is usually stocked, and music can also be listened to thru built in speakers and Bluetooth connectivity.
I also did some painting. The loft has been painted inside and out. It was a custom blend- I mixed up all the leftover latex paint from the Mrs projects over the years, and "Chop Shop Gray" was born. I am really happy with the color!
Part of the benefit to my new role is to be able to work remotely. I spend much of my days on job sites, but if I have "office" work to do, I can do it from home. I quickly learned that the dining room table will work for a quick email or 2, but after an hour, its just not really what I need. Too many distractions. Once school started, the wife went back to work, so we have a young lady who babysits Yogi in our home. Great kid, but I really don't want to be in the house alone with a 19 year old girl.
The solution was clear- The Chop Shop! I already had a desk for the kids in the loft. I did some rework on it, and went all retro with the furnishings, and I think the first iteration turned out well! I did learn a couple things:
1. Its HOT in the loft! However with a fan, and the main lights off (task lighting only) and limiting physical activity, it is livable.
2. A office in a Shop or a barn needs to be enclosed. Upon initial set up I just ran some power, set up my stuff and went to work. But dust control has been as issue. No matter how minor the work is, the dust and dirt finds its way to my desk.
3. Now that the weather has changed, its pretty chilly up there in the AM. This is pretty easy to solve.
So I wanted to remedy these situations, and do it in keeping with the retro vibe of the office thus far. So I began this weekend. For now, just a teaser, but I will tell you, I am super pleased with how it is coming.
It has been a rambling, possibly non-nonsensical update. I will try to do better about updates moving ahead.
Well, sometimes there are reasons, and good, bad or otherwise, I have mine. I have been quietly working for the past year and 3 months, off and on, slowly making progress. I had honestly about forgotten about the thread, but I also did remember how much fun it was on here and how much good info I have gotten.
I wanted to give a brief update on my personal life as well.
As of my last update, the Mrs had just returned from her mission trip with M. Just a few short weeks after that happened, a miracle occurred. after 6 years of Praying and asking the Lord to bless us with just one more child, HE DID! Gavin "Yogi" Samuel was born on April 9, 2018. He is now #6, and we can't imagine life without him.
Also since my last update, I have changed positions at work (now a construction Project Manager) and have taken a side gig- so to speak. I am the praise leader at our church and also bass player.
Along with adding Yogi to the family, I have bought what many describe as my "midlife crisis"- 2018 Mustang GT. I purchased this car just a few months ago. It was on a Wednesday. On the Friday of that same week, the Mrs loaded up Yogi and R, and drove that brand spanking new Mustang from Indiana to Coyote Canyon, AZ to return to share the gospel with the Navajo nation! M went again as well, but she rode the bus. So the "new" Mustang had 3500 miles on it within 2 weeks, lol. Below is a picture of it on the reservation.
The last year has not been all good news. This past spring, as my dads health continued to decline, I got a call from him one morning. He needed to go to the hospital. Keep in mind, we share a property line, and we have watched him decline over the last few years, but he refused to seek treatment. I got to his house and found him, unable to get out of bed, and super frail. After a couple trips to the ER (long story) and a good diagnosis, he has advanced stage Parkinson's. He went thru about 4 weeks of rehab, and is now medicated, and doing much better. He has even returned to work- he is a real hero to me.
Now for an update on the Chop Shop:
The Chop Shop rarely sees a car these days- mainly basketballs and volleyballs, my home office is in the loft (more on that later) and also serves as the area to rebuild and refinish basses. I have changed up the area that was originally slated to be parking for the quad, and the golf cart under the loft. It is now a wood shop, enclosed to contain the dust.
I have finally made good on a promise I made to the kids, the "loft" is a pretty cool hang out area with large white boards, storage areas, a couch, TV with separate DVD player (for their shows) or they can watch what dad is watching down stairs thanks to HDMI splitters. The fridge is usually stocked, and music can also be listened to thru built in speakers and Bluetooth connectivity.
I also did some painting. The loft has been painted inside and out. It was a custom blend- I mixed up all the leftover latex paint from the Mrs projects over the years, and "Chop Shop Gray" was born. I am really happy with the color!
Part of the benefit to my new role is to be able to work remotely. I spend much of my days on job sites, but if I have "office" work to do, I can do it from home. I quickly learned that the dining room table will work for a quick email or 2, but after an hour, its just not really what I need. Too many distractions. Once school started, the wife went back to work, so we have a young lady who babysits Yogi in our home. Great kid, but I really don't want to be in the house alone with a 19 year old girl.
The solution was clear- The Chop Shop! I already had a desk for the kids in the loft. I did some rework on it, and went all retro with the furnishings, and I think the first iteration turned out well! I did learn a couple things:
1. Its HOT in the loft! However with a fan, and the main lights off (task lighting only) and limiting physical activity, it is livable.
2. A office in a Shop or a barn needs to be enclosed. Upon initial set up I just ran some power, set up my stuff and went to work. But dust control has been as issue. No matter how minor the work is, the dust and dirt finds its way to my desk.
3. Now that the weather has changed, its pretty chilly up there in the AM. This is pretty easy to solve.
So I wanted to remedy these situations, and do it in keeping with the retro vibe of the office thus far. So I began this weekend. For now, just a teaser, but I will tell you, I am super pleased with how it is coming.
It has been a rambling, possibly non-nonsensical update. I will try to do better about updates moving ahead.
OP
Big Daddy Chop Shop
Well-known member
OP
Big Daddy Chop Shop
Well-known member
I began work on enclosing the office a couple weeks ago. Framing, gathering materials, and that is when it happened.... I forgot I wasn't 20 any longer and threw out my back. Ah, fun stuff. 2 weeks later and I am feeling better, still not 100%, but I hope it is a lesson learned.
I got one of my (modified) window units in. Yes, the glass is still dirty, but keep in mind these have sat outside for 30+ years, so I did a "initial clean". I also removed all the glass (it was barely hanging on anyway) and cut down and re-welded the frames with 1 row removed. Reinstalled the glass, and J and I installed it. Pops told me my great-grandfather scrounged these windows from Arvins during a remodel of their factory in Columbus.
The door came from my Pops too. Supposedly, it came out of a bank in downtown Columbus, IN. He had stored it for better than 30 years too, in the basement. It was still gross. Glass was good, just did a clean up. It is a non-standard door and my bet was it was used in a freestanding type office with about 1" wood paneling (some was still attached). The door itself was walnut, as was the attached paneling. i had to make a minor repair using some of the attached scrap. WOW, it smelled awesome as I cut it. Took me back to my childhood when pops had his wood shop in our basement!
I also sheeted the outside of the wall with 3/4 plywood (yes, overkill, but it was a freebie!) and pulled the existing sheeting from the back wall and the 1/2 wall and began to insulate. R19 that Pops had on hand. That original sheeting then went back.
More insulation and sheeting to do. Still need to get a second window unit for the wall overlooking the shop floor. It too will be cut down, and also likely hinged to allow me to yell at the kids if need be, lol.
The largest challenge perhaps in all this is 2 fold.
1. Keeping it functional at a moments notice if I need to work at home.
2. The Mrs. refuses to step foot up stairs. The combination of the ship stair and the fact that she knows most all the lumber was reclaimed makes her nervous. Mind you, there have been 10 teenagers plus myself and another adult up there, but she isn't going! I like to show off my work and have the Mrs approve, but oh well.
I got one of my (modified) window units in. Yes, the glass is still dirty, but keep in mind these have sat outside for 30+ years, so I did a "initial clean". I also removed all the glass (it was barely hanging on anyway) and cut down and re-welded the frames with 1 row removed. Reinstalled the glass, and J and I installed it. Pops told me my great-grandfather scrounged these windows from Arvins during a remodel of their factory in Columbus.
The door came from my Pops too. Supposedly, it came out of a bank in downtown Columbus, IN. He had stored it for better than 30 years too, in the basement. It was still gross. Glass was good, just did a clean up. It is a non-standard door and my bet was it was used in a freestanding type office with about 1" wood paneling (some was still attached). The door itself was walnut, as was the attached paneling. i had to make a minor repair using some of the attached scrap. WOW, it smelled awesome as I cut it. Took me back to my childhood when pops had his wood shop in our basement!
I also sheeted the outside of the wall with 3/4 plywood (yes, overkill, but it was a freebie!) and pulled the existing sheeting from the back wall and the 1/2 wall and began to insulate. R19 that Pops had on hand. That original sheeting then went back.
More insulation and sheeting to do. Still need to get a second window unit for the wall overlooking the shop floor. It too will be cut down, and also likely hinged to allow me to yell at the kids if need be, lol.
The largest challenge perhaps in all this is 2 fold.
1. Keeping it functional at a moments notice if I need to work at home.
2. The Mrs. refuses to step foot up stairs. The combination of the ship stair and the fact that she knows most all the lumber was reclaimed makes her nervous. Mind you, there have been 10 teenagers plus myself and another adult up there, but she isn't going! I like to show off my work and have the Mrs approve, but oh well.
53PontiacSD
Well-known member
I just read the whole thread. What a nice job you've done. I really like the office area. One of those places that need heat and air now to be comfortable. Keep up the good work. I'm following along.
Billy
Billy
OP
Big Daddy Chop Shop
Well-known member
Thank you for the comment, I often wonder if anyone reads this, LOL
The office is now complete! (WHOOHOO)
Insulation is now in all the walls, R19, as well as the ceiling.
Interior walls sheeted and painted in my own custom gray mix.
Window sills are in.
Outlet added for TV.
Light added. It was a salvage item, designed and used as a wall mount fixture, works well with the low ceiling.
Built in shelves for "nick-nacks"
Located latch for swing out window.
Several of my licenses and awards are hanging.
I believe I achieved the industrial look I was going for.
Can bring the space up 40* in 45 minutes with 1 small space heater
Overall I am super pleased. N was a huge help on this project, and the Mrs. has been up to see it, which really made me happy. The gray with teal accents really pop, and it is super useful.
Enjoy!
The office is now complete! (WHOOHOO)
Insulation is now in all the walls, R19, as well as the ceiling.
Interior walls sheeted and painted in my own custom gray mix.
Window sills are in.
Outlet added for TV.
Light added. It was a salvage item, designed and used as a wall mount fixture, works well with the low ceiling.
Built in shelves for "nick-nacks"
Located latch for swing out window.
Several of my licenses and awards are hanging.
I believe I achieved the industrial look I was going for.
Can bring the space up 40* in 45 minutes with 1 small space heater
Overall I am super pleased. N was a huge help on this project, and the Mrs. has been up to see it, which really made me happy. The gray with teal accents really pop, and it is super useful.
Enjoy!
OP
Big Daddy Chop Shop
Well-known member
Construction is as far as I intend to take it at this time. I could finish painting the existing sheeting, but I am needing a break from the construction work.
I decided it was time for a new hobby, or more accurately, an old hobby. After a 30 year hiatus, I decided to dig out some model railroad stuff that I had as a kid. This included 2 4x8 layouts and a bunch of rolling stock. Some of these items were my old man's as well. So now I have 3 generations working on this rail road. I have completed benchwork (a bit unconventional, bit I like it) and am working on laying out track and then on to the other items. This will likely be my last update for a while as it is "garage journal" not "model railroading journal".
When ("IF") i go back to general construction, I will be sure to update the thread. Thanks all.
I decided it was time for a new hobby, or more accurately, an old hobby. After a 30 year hiatus, I decided to dig out some model railroad stuff that I had as a kid. This included 2 4x8 layouts and a bunch of rolling stock. Some of these items were my old man's as well. So now I have 3 generations working on this rail road. I have completed benchwork (a bit unconventional, bit I like it) and am working on laying out track and then on to the other items. This will likely be my last update for a while as it is "garage journal" not "model railroading journal".
When ("IF") i go back to general construction, I will be sure to update the thread. Thanks all.
Bruce 993 SEA
Well-known member
Just read this through and enjoyed your story and progress.
Keep it going, there are lots of build threads but the fun part is what you are doing with it and teaching a new generation some hands on skills!
Cheers!
Keep it going, there are lots of build threads but the fun part is what you are doing with it and teaching a new generation some hands on skills!
Cheers!