Unfortunately, traffic accidents are something without which it is impossible to imagine modern traffic. There are hundreds and even thousands of cars on the roads at the same time, which sometimes can still collide with each other, crash into something, and so on. Naturally, after that they need repairs. If it is possible to produce it, that is, the damage is not so great. As a matter of fact, if there are damages that cause deformation, then they are corrected with the help of a special device, which will be discussed later. Body repair benches are a very common type of equipment that can be found at every workshop. Moreover, some people buy them for their garage. But what are these structures? And what are their types?
What is a slipway?
If you are interested in stocks for body repair, then you should have an idea of what it is in principle. So, this is a special design that is used when your car has the appropriate damage. It allows, if possible, to completely restore the original appearance of the case with the help of rigid fixation and equal pressure. Thus, if the car body is dented in a traffic accident, then you should not immediately get upset, because you can still fix it. And the stocks for body repair will help you with this. There is no difference here whether the structure will be installed in your garage or you will contact a specialist who will provide you with the appropriate service. But first you need to figure out what stocks are in general, because there are several types of this repair equipment.
Platform slipway
Considering stocks for body repair, you first need to pay attention to the platform version, as it is the most common, reliable, and most importantly, multifunctional. The fact is that absolutely various bodies can be made on this design. If there are minor damage and dents, you can use such a slipway. And even if you have serious damage to the car, it will also work. Moreover, you can even perform frame geometry corrections, which is hardly possible on many other variants of this equipment. One of the biggest advantages of this type of stocks is the fact that they can be installed absolutely everywhere, regardless of the base on which the repair will be carried out. The basis of the design is the platform to which the car is attached. This happens using special clamps, and then, using the same platform, the directions and powers of the forces that will be applied to the deformation points for alignment are set. This is exactly how the most common, one might say, standard slipway for body repair works. Photos of a similar design can be found everywhere, but you just need to go to any repair shop to find it there.
Mobile slipway
If you do not have the time, desire or ability to install a full-fledged platform version, then you should pay attention to the mobile version. A drawing of a slipway for this type of body repair will be very different from the previous one, because it performs slightly different tasks. Its main purpose is to quickly and efficiently repair minor damage to the body on the go. You don't have to set up the platform first and then secure your vehicle to it to level it out. It can be done mobile. Of course, you should pay attention to the fact that this option will not allow you to fix serious damage, so use it only if you need quick repairs on the go. If you want to create a home-made slipway for body repair yourself, then this is exactly the kind that can be given to you easier than others - you do not need to think about the conditions for installing the platform and fixing the car.
Frame slipway
The most impressive of all is the frame slipway, which, unlike the platform model, can only be installed in specialized places where it is firmly attached. But its advantage is that you can set several different standard values and service several different classes of cars at once. In this case, you do not need to re-configure each time. So you put together multiple body posts, each with its own configuration, and use them for the right cars, which is incredibly convenient, and compensates for the fact that this design can only be installed in certain places. The dimensions of the slipway for body repair can vary even within the same type. So, the frame version can have different parameters, let alone the mobile one, which is not tied to specific characteristics.
Floor slipway
The floor slipway for body repair is a partially mobile structure, which differs from the mobile one in that it cannot be used on the go. This means that it is not attached to any specific surfaces. It moves along miniature rails, allowing the structure to drive up under any car for its further repair. In addition to rails, such a slipway may also include clamps and power racks. All this provides the possibility of comfortable repair and alignment of the body. But do not be deceived by the fact that such a slipway looks extremely compact - this is only its advantage, since in terms of functionality it is not inferior to other options and is suitable for spending a full
Mini slipway
And of course, one cannot help but recall the miniature slipway, which is used to quickly repair minor damage. It does not require a long installation or adjustment, it is applied instantly and can even out small dents in the case using a one-sided force of up to ten tons. The damage that mini slips can fix may not even be visible to the naked eye, but they can be easily identified when checking for alignment. And it is then that such constructions should be used.
Homemade slipway
These were all kinds of body repair cradles that you can find in specialty stores. But many people decide to assemble their own, home-made sample, so as not to spend money on buying ready-made equipment or servicing in repair shops. Accordingly, if you also decide to try your hand at such a design, then you will need the appropriate materials, and most importantly, a clear drawing with which you can assemble the slipway with your own hands. In this case, it is better not to use the first option that you find on the Web. That is why his photo is not given in this material. It is better to use the drawing that has already been checked by other people, that is, they have already assembled a slipway with it and successfully used it. As mentioned above, it is best to choose those designs that are not the largest - you still won’t be able to make a full-fledged frame version early, so focus on mobile options, and even better - on mini slipways, which can also be very useful in life.
Of course, no one is going to question your design and engineering skills, but it is still recommended to go to a service station if you are experiencing problems with hull damage. High-quality and reliable equipment is installed there, as well as highly qualified specialists who can fix all damage quickly and efficiently. For self-repair, as mentioned above, you can create your own mini slipway.
Body repair masters will unanimously say that the slipway is the first necessary equipment in every body shop. There are even two stocks in our workshop, because there are two tinsmiths working. I want to tell you today how I managed to make a homemade slipway, or rather an exhaust mechanism for a slipway.
By chance, I got a slipway with a very uncomfortable tower on three pillars. Since in our workshop the floors are not even, the slipway tower rolled from side to side and looked like it would fall on a car or, worse, on a person. No sooner said than done, first I dismantled the slipway turret and removed the hydraulic cylinder from there, I had to drain the hydraulic oil. The most difficult thing, it turned out, was to get the hydraulic cylinder out of the slipway tower, I had to turn the tower upside down and pull the cylinder out from above.
Information:
The body slipway is a device for eliminating large, medium, small distortions and restoring the geometric parameters of the body. Recently, the stocks of robotic arms with laser scanning of the body have received the highest popularity. A distinctive feature of such stocks is the complete and accurate restoration of the body geometry.Manufacture of the exhaust mechanism of the slipway
List of works:1. Making a chain attachment
2. Manufacture of a removable anchor support for the exhaust mechanism of the slipway
3.Production of a tip for a support
4.Production of a tip for a chain
5. Assembly of the exhaust mechanism
For the manufacture of fastening the chain to the slipway, an iron sheet 20 mm thick and 100 by 100 mm in size was used. It was also decided to strengthen the fasteners of the chain with two bars of tool steel, which were welded on both sides by welding in carbon dioxide in the center of the hole sheet by 20 mm with a cut on one side for fastening the chain.
The hydraulic cylinder support was also made of iron sheet 100 by 100 mm with holes in the middle for attaching the anchor bolt. The cylinder tips are made from improvised materials, it remains to grind with a grinder and paint.
What was achieved, the ease and speed of installing the slipway hydraulic cylinder, agree to mess with the tower is a big problem.
The slipway is one of the main devices for complex auto body repairs. It is used to restore its geometry after an accident and other damage. Making a simple do-it-yourself slipway for body repair is not so difficult.
The complexity of repairing the body depends on the severity of the car "injuries". In order for it to be of high quality, it is necessary to use the type of slipway that is most suitable for a particular situation. In general, there are three main types of these devices:
- frame;
- floor;
- platform.
Frame devices
This type of fixture is a metal frame. On it, with the help of special clips, the car is fixed. A chain is attached to the deformed place of the body, which is connected to the power element.
A special hydraulic device exerts pressure on the structure. With its help, the damaged section of the machine is pulled out and given its original shape. A frame slipway requires a lift, usually a scissor lift, to set the car to the desired height. With the help of a frame device, many types of body repairs can be carried out. But it is not suitable for complex work, because it does not have a sufficiently reliable fastening system.
Platform devices
Such devices are usually used for complex repairs. This is a metal platform with a reliable system of clamps and fasteners located on it. Such stocks can have several power towers. Often a scissor lift is attached to them.
Platform devices are more versatile than frame counterparts. But according to the principle of operation, they are similar: their main part is a hydraulic device. Such stocks are suitable for different types of body repair.
It is especially valuable that the deformed fragment on them can be pulled in all directions. In addition, a reliable fastening system expands the range of repair work. The disadvantage of such devices is their large size.
Floor type of stocks
The slipway floor for body repair is used by professionals. It moves along rails laid in the floor. The device package includes steel racks, a pneumatic rectifier, a clamping system, etc. Such stocks are suitable for repairing bodies of both cars and trucks with any degree of deformation. Such versatility can be explained by their robust design, as well as a large number of components.
Another advantage of the platform device is that it does not take up much space. With the help of a pneumatic rectifier, acting in all directions, body deformations are smoothed out. This principle of operation of the equipment provides the best result.
All types of stocks can develop a pulling force from 1.5 to 10 tons. Thanks to this, the devices can be used to repair the bodies of all types and models of passenger cars.
Self-made slipway
If it is not possible to buy a slipway, you can make its analogue with your own hands. To do this, you do not need a lot of money and time. Follow the instructions for the manufacture of the device frame, which is responsible for fixing the car.
- First of all, draw or download device drawings on the Internet.
- For the cross beam, take a metal profile. A rack with grippers for car thresholds will be fixed on it. To create them, corners with holes drilled for bolts will need to be welded to the cross beam.
- Make holes, taking into account the specific model of the car. To change the dimensions for another car, you just need to drill new holes in the beam.
- The profile should have a section of 40 × 80 mm and a length of 150 cm. Such dimensions are quite enough for almost all types of car bodies.
- For racks, take a steel longitudinal profile with a section of 20 × 40 mm. Strengthen them with scarves from the same profile. The height of the racks should be 25 cm.
- At the top of the racks, weld the corners - to capture car thresholds. For a better hitch, pre-weld the nuts or apply notches. Use finely threaded bolts and nuts as fasteners.
- Now you need to create a protective coating for the device. Clean all its elements first. Then coat their surface with an anti-corrosion primer, epoxy is best. It will provide reliable protection against rust, because the slipway will be located in a place with high humidity.
- Spray paint over the primer using a wet-on-wet method.
- Fix the racks on the beam with bolts having a length of 10 cm (M10). They are quite suitable for working with hydraulic devices that develop a pulling force of up to 4 tons.
- Install the slipway made to its workplace.
- Now it remains for you to mount chains and grips for fixing the car, a coupler or a hoist, creating a force of about 1.5-2 tons.
You can make another exactly the same device and fasten both structures with beams. So you get a rolling version of the design. He does not need a rigid mount to the floor, but will have to install it on a swivel column.
To make a slipway with your own hands, the car owner is usually forced by the non-standard design of the garage belonging to him or the lack of funds for the purchase of standard devices intended for straightening the body.
The direct purpose of the slipway is to restore the geometry of the body, damaged as a result of a traffic accident. A slipway for body repair allows you to apply forces of several tons to it, as a result of which compression or, conversely, stretching of the body structure occurs.
Different types of slipways and preparation for making a simple do-it-yourself device
Since this device is very powerful, in order to avoid an accident during body work, it is necessary to ensure its reliable fastening on a specially made frame. The frame slipway is the most common device for self-restoration of body geometry.
There are three types of stocks, while each can develop a force of up to ten tons, which is quite enough for straightening almost any body. There are the following types of stocks:
- Frame slipway. In its design without fail there is a frame made of metal. At the same time, special clamps are needed to fix the car on it. The directly deformable section is straightened with the help of a chain connected to the power device. In addition, for the correct operation of such a device, it is necessary to use a lift.
- Platform slipway. This straightening device is more versatile and therefore applicable to a wider range of body repair work. Here, all operations are performed on a special platform with a system of clamps and fasteners mounted on it.
- Floor slipway. This is an extremely professional device that moves along rails embedded in the floor of the garage box. This slipway allows you to even repair trucks, as it has a reliable design and impressive dimensions.
Each of these types of stocks has its own advantages and disadvantages.
Carrying out preparatory work
Before making a slipway, it will be necessary to carry out a number of preparatory work. So, it is worthwhile to determine in advance what kind of work will be performed on it, and which car models can be repaired with it. For example, if you decide to open a body shop, then you will need a platform device, and for small household work, a frame unit is also quite suitable.
Having decided on the type of slipway, you should prepare the floor of the room where it will be installed. So, the frame structure will require deepening the fasteners for it into the floor, as well as fixing them with cement mortar. But the platform can be completely installed in the garage without attaching it to the floor, since its weight will completely allow for the necessary body work.
Making a simple frame device
Do-it-yourself frame slipway is the easiest to make, as this is the simplest and most common design for non-professional use. To carry out bodywork, in any case, you will need hydraulics, which cannot be made on your own, so the manufacture of the slipway will be limited only to the design and installation of the frame.
Since this part is directly responsible for fixing the car, it is necessary to carefully approach its installation. To do this, it is worth preparing drawings in advance, you can draw them yourself if you have such experience.
A metal profile is usually used as the material for the frame. A rack with grippers is attached to it, which will have to fix the thresholds of the car. The thresholds, in turn, are welded from metal corners and installed on the beams with bolts.
After installation, these elements are also strengthened by welding. Determination of the dimensions of the metal profile is based on the fact that the minimum dimensions of its section should be 40x80 mm, and the length should be 150 mm. A profile of such dimensions will be quite enough to carry out work on straightening the body of most passenger cars.
Homemade slipway requires the manufacture of racks. Usually, a metal profile with a section of 20x40 mm is used for this, while their height should not be less than 25 cm. Kerchiefs are welded onto the finished racks, and at the top - corners that capture the thresholds of the car.
Completion of manufacturing work
When making a slipway with your own hands, you need to remember that it will be necessary to make special notches on the racks for better grip or weld nuts. To fasten the frame elements, it is necessary to use nuts and bolts with fine threads. At the same time, experienced motorists are advised to take such fasteners from repair kits from foreign cars.
When working with hydraulics with a capacity of about four tons, it is worth using M10 bolts. It is they who allow you to clearly fix the racks on the beam and subsequently withstand the specified load.
Having mounted the device, be sure to paint it to protect it from corrosion, because it will be installed in a room with high humidity. To do this, it is necessary to clean the metal from rust and coat it with a primer. After that, you should paint the frame with a spray gun.
After painting, the frame is mounted at the place of operation. The installation site must be prepared in advance, and if it is planned to carry out a wider range of body work, it makes sense to manufacture and install another home-made slipway, mounted on a rotary column.
If a more functional slipway is required, you can carefully study the design of industrial designs and try to repeat it yourself. Or you can buy ready-made equipment in body shops that sell old stocks.
A car, for all its apparent complexity for a professional repairman, is a fairly simple unit with many interdependent or autonomous units. With the necessary equipment and high skill, repairing this mechanism is no more difficult than repairing an iron and other household appliances. The main thing is to know what the problem is and choose the best way to solve it. One of the main devices used in car body repair is a slipway.
It is a rigid structure that allows you to carry out various types of work. Industrial designs of this device have a very high cost and may not be within the power of a small auto repair shop or a lone master. At the same time, it is not difficult to make the construction of the stock with your own hands, armed with a welding machine and having studied our instructions.
The main purpose of such a platform is to give the car frame the correct geometric shape, which can be broken, for example, in a traffic accident. With the help of special devices, the skeleton of the car is rigidly fixed on the slipway frame and it is subjected to a pulling or pressing effect in various directions.
To provide the necessary force, hooks, chains with welded links, and various hydraulic devices are used.
This aspect involves giving the slipway maximum tensile and compressive strength.
There are currently many options for such a device. They can be mobile (mobile) and stationary. Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages. Stationary, with proper installation and high-quality fastening, allows you to apply much more effort to the car frame to correct its geometric parameters.
At the same time, it requires a separate, quite large room for its installation, as well as for accommodating auxiliary devices and maneuvering the car when placing it on a slipway. The mobile view does not require large areas, as for temporary storage it can be installed on the side edge of any wall of the garage or repair box.
At the same time, the list of works that can be performed with its help is just as large.
Assembling a homemade slipway
Self-manufacturing of the slipway should begin with the installation of the frame platform of the fixture. To do this, you need a steel rectangular profile with a section of 50 × 50, 70 × 40 and others, depending on the expected load on the fixture. The connection of parts is carried out by a weld, which must be performed with the highest quality. The linear dimensions of the platform should satisfy the dimensional parameters of the frames of most vehicles with which you intend to work.
To ensure the high strength of the frame, it is necessary to combine both longitudinal and transverse elements. The assembly of the structure must be carried out on an even, flat base, for example, on a concrete floor. To improve the quality of the connection of parts, the manufacture of a chamfer at the ends of the parts at the points of their joining will help. In addition, it is necessary to correctly select the operating modes of the welding machine. To ensure high stability of the frame with the car installed on it, we recommend welding small racks in the corners and in the center of the longitudinal sides.
It is necessary to select or make a number of auxiliary devices for the slipway frame, without which work on editing the body and giving the frame the correct geometry will be impossible. The first one is fasteners.
They are used directly to fix the car frame on the slipway. The quality of body (frame) work depends on their strength and performance. The design of fasteners may be different, but it should allow:
- withstand the deforming force applied to the frame without destruction;
- provide the possibility of movement along the frame and fastening at its various points;
- ensure maximum strength of the connection between the car frame and the slipway.
It is taking into account all of the above parameters, and one or another variant of fasteners is selected. At the same time, to work with various brands of cars, it is better to use devices with a variable height of the mounting jaws and moving along the slipway frame both in the longitudinal and transverse directions.
Another mandatory device is the power rack, which must also move and be fixed in various racks of the slipway.
It is through them that the main effort is applied to certain parts of the automobile skeleton in order to straighten it. In this regard, such a node should also have maximum strength. The main material for the manufacture of racks is a square steel profile with a cross section of at least 80 × 80 or a steel pipe. The junction of the vertical and horizontal parts is further enhanced by installing a scarf from the same profile, or a little less.
For the convenience of work, the rack must be equipped with a fixture for fastening to the slipway frame and a platform for installing thrust rods. To work with simple body defects, two such devices are enough.
Thus, using quite affordable materials and the simplest types of connection of parts - welding and bolting, you can not only make a useful and convenient device, but also save significant funds on this.
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