Matt,
On the subject of workbenches, I asked this list about using metal to
cover the bench for engine work a few months back. The responses were
positive with lots of suggestions. When I talked to metal fabricators
I got the following prices:
$65 for 24 guage galv. sheet metal
$75 for 22 guage galv. sheet metal
$20 more to have each end folded down over the end of the bench (wraps
around a 2x4 at each end)
They said 24 Guage Stainless Steel would be about 3X the price.
I chose the 22 Guage Galv Sheet Metal top with folded ends ($95).
This was for a bench 8' long, 2' deep with a front and end lips that wrap
around a 2x4 on the front edge of the bench. There was a 18" high back
splash at the back of the bench. (So overall, they had to put 7 bends in
a sheet about 9' long and 4' wide.)
Under the sheet metal is 1/2" particle board and two sheets of 3/4" plywood
resting on 2X4 frame.
List members suggested adding a drain. I put it in the middle near the back.
It leads to a bucket directly under the top, but I haven't needed it yet.
Also mounted a 55lb 6" vice at one end.
Overall impressions:
- Very easy to clean.
- I feel confident that engine assembly is not contaminated.
- Nice "feel" to the surface.
- Easy to do layout work on (very consistent surface).
- Seems to survive the abuse I've given it so far (time will tell).
but,
- Don't really know if it was worth the added expense over masonite.
John Miller
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