How to repair rusty cross members

[@paulquirk9041]

Sometimes I look at what Fitzee starts with and think how the hell is he going to replicate that mess? Simple answer is one section at a time. His work is truely inspirational and works of art when done. Wish his shop was closer to me, I'd love to hang out for a bit

[@stevendouglas6593]

Watching him always makes me feel like “yeah, I could do that”.

[@botoepfer8588]

@@stevendouglas6593 I all but gave up on a project, finding this channel has been a huge inspiration

[@MrCapiroto66]

This channel is pure gold. One of the best channels on KZbin.

[@v5u7sulh2]

absolutely agree with you!! This is the kind of Pure Gold channel yt was built on!

[@cars3800]

Agreed

[@mohawkmike142]

I agree Marcello.. Fitzee's work is top notch. Much to learn here. Thx Fitzee.

[@mangoMango-ck3et]

Second THAT.

[@ericparks6386]

I’ve learned so much in just a couple days of watching

[@interpinto]

Yesterday I would not have tried that repair. After watching your step by step I would try it. Thanks.

[@dj9ry]

Same feeling here!!

[@damiancampoz4493]

I work metal too every video I see is new tip I had never thought of , you give me no option but to watch every video, and your work is too too perfect you deserve every penny you charge, you do more work and more perfection than most of us that I know of , great tips please keep making great videos THANK YOU

[@FunFun-tv7gq]

Awesome work and tips. I can’t thank you enough. PLEASE keep the good job up teaching us your tips and tricks. Cheers from Melbourne 🇦🇺

[@WILDGEESE399]

I have watched many channels on metal repairs you my friend are heads and shoulders above the rest hats off to you sir 👍🇳🇿

[@Powerwagon563]

There are few true craftsmen such as this gent nowadays.

[@brianhinkemeyer1776]

Man you're the first channel I've seen doing real blood and guts restoration work. Thank you for taking the time and effort to share your knowledge with us! AWESOME STUFF

[@katykayy]

My brother just bought a Ford 1929 Model A. He asked if I could help with the rusted door panels and such! I’ve only been welding a couple years. Artwork and gates. I said; oh no! That’s a totally different animal there! I came across your channel Fitz! Now I’m like that little train going uphill with a huge load! I think I can, I think I can! Thank you so very much for being such an awesome teacher! It’s going to be fun!!!!!

[@dariuszornatowski9327]

Fitzee you are the greatest! I have started to rebuild a rusty 1973 MGB and became overwhelmed with the amount of work and not knowing where to start. After watching your video's I have been able to gain confidence that yes it can be done and I don't need a bunch of specialty tools to complete the job! I have a entire cross member to change which was stressing me out, but now I have a plan in mind. The sills are toast but if I get that cross member changed I will have a good starting point to get me rolling! Thanks for sharing your knowledge with all of us!

[@fitzeesfabrications]

Keep me posted on progress. I'm glad I could help

[@Hutchy45445]

Another great tutorial 👍 my new favourite channel. You probably know this already, Fitzy, but you’re gonna get skin cancer if keep welding without covering up. Thanks for making these videos!

[@rvmagnum5415]

watching an artist at work , truly a master craftsmen .

[@garethgoodchild2643]

It is so satisfying watching a genius at work! Please don't stop making these videos Fitzee!

[@fojnica2226]

you are artist................greetings from croatia

[@johnpisciotto9655]

You are such a great teacher, thank you for sharing your skills. I'm 64 and learned so much from watching your videos. Trouble with other people doing repairs is all you do is watching them go back and forth cutting to fit patches. Your method of placing over than cutting on a 45 is the best. I look forward to watching your videos.

[@MikePassey-yg6se]

I needed to make almost an identical piece but on a F100 using #14 gauge, my implementation with the rolled edges needed to change. It turned out better than I would was expecting, thanks Fitzee you give me help to make my own pieces.

[@douglasphillips24]

I worked on patching 73 Chevy Truck hood today using your methods & the inside structure was rusted so I fabricated a piece then tacked it in using pulse method. It took several hours but turned out great. Thanks for your videos . Big help.

[@gtogreg2811]

Wow. This guy is good. Makes difficult things look easy and gives amateurs confidence.

[@johndutton4095]

Love this sort of content, not silly hyped up content, just solid decent usable guidance

[@JimTheZombieHunter]

Just rewatched this video. This exact cross member is missing the outboard ten inches each side of my Granddad's '68 merc pickup. What I take from this (and the Nova quarter video) is stop worrying about trying to patch with a single formed piece and don't be afraid to weld. I suspect this is where many of us amateurs get gun shy even if we're comfy with the MIG. There's a discarded hood from a seventy-fiveish Ford pickup out back here in the farm dump. I'm going to retrieve it today (that should be fun dragging out of the bush) both for raw material for patching the Merc, and to cut a few bits out of the contoured sections and replace them to practice a few tips that I've learned here on this channel. This is a golden series. Love the can-do attitude and little tricks. After watching you, I feel as if I've been tutored by an actual hands on pro. Perhaps not today .. (practice, practice..), but you WILL make me a better fabricator. A heartfelt thanks pal. One suggestion for future videos .. I suspect many of us shade trees are also arsed by the "how the heck do I get in there with the gun" problems: weird box sections and scratching our heads as to how the factory ever put that together, as well second guessing if what we've done will be strong enough. And fill. Anyone watching you has done it, and a lot have gotten pretty good as far as making it look good .. but are we doing it right? Lead is dead .. would love to see a polyester 123. Have we been doing it wrong all these years? Do the real guys use Crappy Tire quart cans, or is there some other magic?

[@fitzeesfabrications]

Oh i slung my share of filler. Lol. Its one of the reasons i try to finsh off my welded panels like I do. A over lapped patch need 6 to 8 inchs to flow out the lap make it straight. Nothing worse then sanding filler and cutting threw a edge on the welded panel. As for the hard to reach areas with the welder. I look to see if I can remove something or get at it from the other side. It why I believe in doing repairs from the inside out.

[@TMart-yw6sl]

I haven't been back to the Rock for 15 years and watching you fit and weld metal is strangely comfortable. Thanks for the videos, very helpful.

[@CopyCatGarage]

one of the few channels I don't have to fight back drowsiness with. Great Information and I am learning so much. Thanks Fitzee!

[@jdpower5552]

The scribe line against the black marker tip was great and so simple,thx

[@aaaapppp2854]

You sir are a true metal artist. You make it look so easy. And all the while you are explaining the process to the point where I can understand and see how it works out. 😁

[@blsully]

I have a 54 Chevy I'm going to need to do some sheet metal repair on after I finish up the mechanicals and have been incredibly apprehensive about taking that on. A metal-worker, I am not. But your videos, tips, and techniques make it appear much less insurmountable. Thanks for all your efforts.

[@TimmyMoza]

Gotta say fantastic work. And step by step is so appreciated. Learning so much.

[@vintage396]

Amazing...what an excellent teacher.... what experience and talent ....at its best ...nothing is ever a problem... never intimidates anyone..

[@bicyclewrench]

Yo Fitzee. Thanks for the education brother! Because of you I've finally started on my 53 Plymouth. You the man!

[@hecner]

I am genuinely blown away by how easy you make it seem. Thank you for sharing your skill with us.

[@6cylracing]

accidentally found this channel and im absolutely glad i did, been fixing rust on e36 and honda civic eg9 and im impressed about how you do this work with so much quality, it inspires me to be more patient and learn more!

[@airtimegraphix1084]

dude! im addicted to this channel

[@markwatling5991]

Thanks, Fitzee, for fantastic work. I'm a shop teacher and deeply appreciate your craftsmanship with basic tools and machinery.

[@123suzukisamurai]

Man o man. U sure got this figured out. My hats off to u

[@Skihist2]

This channel has inspired me to get into welding and fabrication. Awesome job!!

[@privatepilot2617]

Your prep and execution in so engaging, so completely practical, it is a sad time when each vid comes to an end. Your teacher should be proud that you too, have become a mentor/teacher.

[@DustyMacsGarage]

Ive been fixing rust on my wifes 72 Datsun 240z and Ive used some of the tricks learned from your channel to make the panel replacements. Your deserve so many more subscribers. The time it takes to do a panel justice sometimes go unnoticed. The trimming, fitting, retrimming, welding, grinding takes soo much time. You make it look easy!!!

[@peaceeagle1618]

Wow, Fitzee what a fantastic series of programming. I'm in the middle of a project involving a 1934 Austin Clifton roadster that was built into an Altered in 1962. I have most of the subframe for the body built but now I have repair bottom of the body where they just cut out the rust. Your videos have proven to be invaluable in this project. Thanks so much for your great work!

[@mjm7187]

First you build a body rotisserie, great videos and camera work. I love the make do with what you have attitude on this channel.

[@williamcharles9480]

A true fitter and fabricator, you certainly are, Mr. Fitzee. I'm loving your way of using minimal pleasures to achieve marvelous results. There's a lot to learn here because you work in an environment that much matches those of us that have had the fortune in finding your channel. There's quite a few expensive specialized tool hawkers (vendors) that would like to silence you, I'm sure. Again, many thanks for sharing your expertise.

[@nel6211]

I'm glad you mentioned how long it took to make that one small piece. You really need to take your time to make it right. Nice work.

[@MorrowSind]

You, sir, are a master of your craft. Beautiful work!

[@shawnlawrence4840]

Cant tell you thanks enough brother, it doesn't get any better than you.

[@richevellefr7721]

You are a true craftsman,Mr. Fitzee's.Beautiful work and very conscientious. Thanks. Your videos are great.

[@toad3048]

Wow, this channel is a treasure. This is better than Christmas morning! Thank you

[@stephenedwards7280]

I wish I had of found this channel 12 months ago when I started my project. It’s saved time and money. Thanks from Aus for all your tips champ👍

[@magnum357225]

Great job, a lot of people think metal work is easy but it take a lot of imagination, planing and being able to see all the steps before even starting.

[@fitzeesfabrications]

Yes and many times you see the problems you will run into along the way before you even start

[@billsmith5166]

It hurts me to watch you do this. Beautiful work.

[@kevinaloisio3]

Fitz I've been in body business a long time i can't tell you how many little things I've picked up from you in a month thank you sir

[@tomchristopher71]

You're advice to have more metal and trim it is golden. I had trouble cutting my metal too small and then it made sense when you mention it in your videos. Thanks.

[@SketchysGarage]

You can also start with poster board for a template then transfer to metal.

[@Steve.Vaught]

I like that ih

[@randytravis3998]

@@SketchysGarage your talking about using the CAD system .. Cardboard aided design ..

[@SketchysGarage]

@@randytravis3998 🤣🤣🤣 I liked that.

[@johnpaulsmulders8639]

Thanks Fitzy, that is the best step by step tutorial to achieve what look like complex repairs with basic hand tools. Right down my alley!

[@britjamaine9229]

New to you about a week ago and couldn’t wait for work on the Bronco. Excited for it as I have been working on one as well, with another in line. I was debating ignoring that problem but now I know how to fix it. Thank you.

[@johngenova9870]

Thanks for doing this, you're a craftsman and a fine teacher!

[@jr7392]

This vid (and others on the channel) are going to save me a ton of money making my own panels instead of trying to fit poorly-made repros. Thank you sir! Also appreciate how you show using everyday tools. A lot of channels start out, "OK, first buy this $1500 tool that you're only going to use once." Er, no thanks.

[@fitzeesfabrications]

I been doing it this way for 30 years. I do have a metal brake bead roller and English wheel. All homemade. Don't use them as much as you would think. The brake gets the most use

[@Danno74Z]

Love this series! Teaching myself to use these techniques to repair rusted areas on my 260Z.

[@robertdavis6708]

Nice job Fitzee. There's nothing better than a perfect fabrication. It's either right or wrong. And always remember, " Your Eyes Will Never Lie To You " !

[@EldonRHiebert]

It's these little tips that you show the way that really helps. Use a lot of heat and do spot welds instead of trying to run a bead. That little tip is magic right there. Love your channel, love the real work you do, and the editing is fantastic. Some people edit out way too much and you don't get those little tidbits of magic like you share. Working on a '66 Mustang myself. Frame rot, inner panel rot, etc. Your teaching shows me the way. Thank you so much for sharing.

[@jamesbashaw5831]

"...on that infamous 45 degree angle." This very well may be the best channel on KZbin.

[@tombaker3794]

I don't do this kind of work, but I can recognize an expert craftsman when I see one, and this individual is just that - a top notch expert.

[@williamgorman7867]

Oh my gosh I just learned so much about sheet metal work by watching just this one video. Great stuff!!

[@ediwilsonfrancodeoliveira3919]

I’m from Brazil, I’ve now discovered your channel and don’t watch anything else, I’m learning a lot from you even though I don’t understand English, congratulations, you’re super professional.

[@stantilton2191]

Another fine job Fitzee , Thank you for sharing your knowledge.

[@highpointjdm4223]

Just go found this channel, and have no regrets. Pure gold! 🍻

[@anthonylester3247]

My God you are spectacular plus you're accent = I can't get enough, teach me my Lord 🙏 Fitzy

[@malcolmchadwick4047]

Fantastic video my friend. You have inspired me to carry on with my MGB GT which I have near enough completed. I lost intererest in doing it but your videos have given me the kick up the rear to get going.

[@robertb8280]

Another Great video. I wish that I found this channel before I did my rocker panels on my Ford. I spent weeks trying to bend long pieces of metal into a z shaped pattern. Live and learn. Thanks

[@russelldmytrow823]

You are still my new hero ! You have revived hope that i CAN complete my projects ...THANK YOU !!

[@stinky817]

You, my friend, are a magician with sheet metal

[@rayrayadkins6178]

I love the way you explain the stuff that you have been working on

[@scottbrowder4967]

Thanks for taking the time to share you experience. I always learn something watching you work.

[@davidfusco6600]

Really nice work! I went to school for autobody, and loved doing restorations such as you are doing. Unfortunately, my attention to detail made for a slow worker in a fast paced shop, and jobs that didn’t last long. I’ve been a machinist now for forty plus years, looking foreword to retirement and again restoring old cars!

[@brendanmoore8407]

It's a pleasure to watch you make and explain as you make tricky sections,crafts man at work and no high speed camera work,patience and talent are rare and you have them by the bucket full thank you and please don't stop making these Spielberg thrillers

[@Rattletrap2]

It is so rewarding to learn something new from an absolute Craftsman!

[@springvaleaccommodation3487]

I reckon I'd have spent three days measuring, making templates, cutting, folding and trying to form that thing from one piece....I'd have used enough plate to re-sheathe the titanic, used about 20 metres of welding wire and still not have been there. I've sat here for the last two hours watching your videos I've knocked round cars all my life but had no formal training. I'm currently rebuilding a 76' Long Wheel Base V12 Jag. There's no real fabrication needed but I feel much more confident to give the bit there is a go with my limited workshop. I'm in Hobart, Tasmania, the Island state of Australia, about as far from Canada as I can be. Thanks yourself for putting this knowledge out to the world

[@ProleDaddy]

The tips are always good. Thank you, Fitzee. You're gold. All my best.

[@mayorsman0417]

Nice work, thank you for taking the time to film and share

[@musinkaboi6665]

If I live nearby I’d go sweep his shop floor everyday so I could watch him work and learn his craft.

[@carlmason983]

That repair is spot on so much that once painted you would never know it had been repaired.

[@nogoogle9063]

I'd like to see a video of just all your home made specialty tools.The home made Dolly & Brake are great and I know you have a few others. Maybe include some tips like having multiple grinders set up for different operations to save you time. You're a craftsman with a wealth of knowledge. Only 10% of learning takes place in a classroom, 20% comes from people sharing what they learned & 70% from doing, sometimes failing, sometimes succeeding. Your experience and skill is inspiring. Well done mate.

[@fitzeesfabrications]

Like those ideas. Building a new tool this week. Watch for it

[@joelkoonce8559]

Thanks again Fitzee . Your Craftsmanship is TOP NOTCH !!!

[@mrk.dilkington]

"Better to be looking at it, than for it", as my old Grandad used to say. Great advice. 👍

[@dateatorjr9671]

I am so glad I found this channel! True skills shared with us and to the point with no bs!

[@deadwood3764]

Tips were great .Like the felt pen scrib trick.Classic

[@workingmansrestorations7071]

I love the round bar and flat stock tool... Home made tools are the best. I could have a toolbox of just my home made tools... Glad i found your channel. I have alot of metal work i am doing now and just getting the hang of using my welder an like it

[@workingmansrestorations7071]

I am working on a stand for my grinder and vice. I want to do something cool. I have some wheels i can use and 2x4 steel... But want some kind of design

[@tomcockerill2570]

I fabricate stainless steel food machinery and have done other jobs in the engineering field and love watching you, you do an excellent job.

[@jameshuffman835]

Sweet! Looks factory!! You are an inspiration! I have a few "retirement projects" and being from northwestern Ohio, I have a lot of rust out!! Thanks for the last tip on the heat, and stitching!!

[@blk7gxn]

Thumbs up all the way!! BEAUTIFUL workmanship! Anyone leaving a thumbs down has no clue in life not alone to spot true talent and workmanship as this!

[@normpowell3566]

Your video just gave me the confidence that I can do it. A BIG ThankYou.

[@fattony9851]

I be so Excited in a time like this whenever you Post a video it helps to Not only inspire but helps take one's mind off of all the crazy that's going on in this beautiful world thanks and keep inspire🤙👍

[@dbayboyds409]

Awesome to see how such complex shapes are patterned and made. Get tips for a variety of fabrication challenges. Thank you!

[@MrDurandal25]

Brilliant stuff. Well laid out, and insightful

[@t-dog8528]

You just confirmed my learning from my own mistakes with some welding issues I've had, definitely worth the watch as im refitting and repairing my boat trailer at the moment. And i think it's definitely time i finish making my welding bench sick of doing it on the floor lol.

[@garyb2316]

id love to be able to spend a month in your garage learning from all of your experience and knowledge

[@michaelvandenhoy1021]

Very impressive how you make it one piece at a time, making a hard project so simple taking your time. Thanks for all the tips, very enjoyable video.

[@paulgillespie7676]

great video !! stumbled across it but found it very satisfying and relaxing. Good to see guys taking their time to do the job right. I could've sworn you were Irish until I read the comments lol

[@jimdrechsel3611]

Much different techniques than the panel work cause I see that you trimmed this time for the sizing. It’s great to watch you form. Can you show how you created the fold over for the door skin repair? I don’t have a brake bender and you seem to form a lot without expensive equipment. If you don’t have a business you won’t invest in that expensive tooling but need to know how to form metal. You show a lot of that and it’s very useful.

[@carmo9693]

Have you ever seen bed frames on the side of the road, pick them up, slide the sheet metal thru when it is folded up, use tong vise grips on both sides and now you can bend. Take a suitable length of wood or steel hold against and hammer away to get the 90deg bend for the most part. Then out of the homemade brake and continue to hammer over with a piece of sheet metal in between the meta you are bending over. Hey it is free and if you need longer weld the angle together to your needs. I hope this helped. A bit crude but works.

[@disgruntledmarmotcustomsan1530]

I'm getting a 60 C10 going and it needed body mounts. Watching this laid it out in such a good way I built my own and they turned out quite acceptable. Good stuff man thanks.

[@michaelharrison4066]

Agree one the best channels. Can't recommend enough!

[@geddonmeansome9834]

Ive just got into your channel , absolutely brilliant , love your work. Cheers from the UK .

[@717273mopar]

Wow, You sir are a true craftsman!

[@tomasrosturrognvaldsson9932]

Great, the best repair on youtupe so far i have seen