Shrinker Stretcher

[shua57]

A long time ago I had a conversation with a bunch of people about shrinker stretchers but that was a long time ago. So I'm back at looking for a set to fab some panels on several projects around the garage. You guys have any suggestions as to a brand/set?
I was looking at a set from TPtools for $350 but it almost the same thing as the Central Neumatic $150 set from HF. Both cast iron bodies with harden jaws. Only difference is Tptools one does 16g steel where HF set only does 18g. I think I would be fine with a set that can at least do 18g.
Josh

[chevynut]

I wouldn't skimp on these. I bought a set from Eastwood, I think. Then I bought the stand from HF that works very well. I think if you get one with cheap jaws it's not going to last long or do a very good job. They usually over-spec this stuff imo so you want to be sure that it will at least handle 18 gauge. I don't think mine were anywhere near $350, but I'm not sure because it's been several years since I bought them.

[shua57]

Eastwood has the set for $200, tptools has a set for $350 because they are made in the USA. Not sure where the Eastwood set is made but they look like the HF set just different colors. Maybe the jaws are better from Eastwood than HF or they could be the same damn things....lol.
Josh

[chevynut]

Mine have a sticker that says "Made in USA" too...the sticker is probably made in China...LOL. I may have gotten them off of eBay. Check there before you buy.

[shua57]

Lol...I would not doubt it Laszlo...or at least the glue for the sticker was made in China. I've been looking on ebay, will keep an eye out. Thanks
Josh

[Rick_L]

I have seen some discussion on this tool at metalmeet.com. You might want to go there and do a search. As I recall there were some mid-priced alternatives.

[shua57]

Well, hello there Mr Rick_L. I'll jump over there and take a look. Thanks
Josh

[56-210Sedan]

Josh and others for that matter, i know nothing about this topic but wanted to post about this shrinker strecher not sure if they are bad or good, but here is a link http://www.woodwardfab.com/shrinkerstretcher.htm

[567chevys]

Hi Guys

Here is a guy that sells tools for sheet metal work


http://www.lowbucktools.com/index.htm