Are you considering taking on the ambitious project of converting your coupe into a sleek fastback? It’s no small task, but with the right tools and preparation, you can achieve professional results. In this guide, we’ll cover the essential tools you’ll need to make your fastback conversion as smooth as possible. Whether you’re a seasoned mechanic or a DIY enthusiast, this list will help you get started on the right foot.
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1. Get a Friend: The Most Important “Tool”
Before diving into the technical aspects, let’s start with the most valuable asset you’ll need—help. This project is complex and requires more than just a set of tools. Having a friend by your side will make the process more manageable and, frankly, more enjoyable. Two sets of hands are better than one, especially when lifting, aligning, and securing heavy panels.
2. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Safety should always be your top priority. Converting a coupe to a fastback involves a lot of cutting, grinding, and welding—activities that generate flying debris, sparks, and hot metal. Equip yourself with the following PPE:
- Safety Goggles and Face Shield: Protect your eyes from flying sparks and debris. A full-face shield offers additional protection when grinding or welding.
- Welding Gloves and Sleeves: Invest in a good pair of leather welding gloves and sleeves to protect your hands and arms from burns and slag.
- Welding Helmet: An auto-darkening welding helmet is essential for visibility and protection during welding.
3. Prepping Your Car
Proper preparation is crucial for a successful conversion. Ensure your vehicle is level before starting any work:
- Levels: Have three different levels of varying lengths to check that your car is perfectly level on all planes.
- Screw Jacks: You’ll need four screw jacks (two for the front and two for the rear) to adjust and maintain the level of your car throughout the process.
- Tubing: Use 1×1-inch, 1/8-inch thick tubing to build a sturdy inner structure, preventing the car from twisting during the conversion.
4. Hand Tools
When it comes to hand tools, you can never have too many clamps:
- Clamps: Stock up on various sizes of clamps, from small C-clamps to large body clamps. These are crucial for holding panels in place during welding and fitting.
- Measuring Tape: Accurate measurements are key to ensuring everything aligns correctly. Keep a measuring tape handy to check door gaps, window dimensions, and more.
- Hammers: A good ball peen hammer and a smaller finishing hammer will be invaluable for adjusting panels and removing spot welds.
- Spot Weld Remover: This sharp tool will make quick work of breaking free panels after you’ve drilled out the spot welds.
5. Power Tools
While hand tools are essential, a few key power tools will make your job much easier:
- Sawzall: Ideal for quickly cutting through the roof and quarter panels.
- Grinders with Cutoff Wheels: These will help you cut through metal panels faster and with more precision than a Sawzall alone.
- Multiple Drills: Having several drills at your disposal allows you to switch between bits without constantly changing them out. Opt for cordless models to avoid dealing with tangled cords.
6. Welding Equipment
No fastback conversion is complete without some serious welding. Here’s what you’ll need:
- MIG Welder: A reliable MIG welder is essential for securing new panels and reinforcing the car’s structure.
- Welding Helmet, Gloves, and Sleeves: As mentioned earlier, proper PPE is a must when welding. An auto-darkening helmet will help you see clearly while keeping your face protected.
7. Optional Tools: Speed Up the Process
If your budget allows, consider investing in these tools to make the conversion process faster and more efficient:
- Spot Welder: While not a necessity, a spot welder can speed up the process, especially for areas like the roof and inner structure.
- Plasma Cutter: This tool can significantly reduce the time it takes to cut through metal, allowing you to complete the conversion in a fraction of the time.
Final Thoughts
Converting a coupe into a fastback is a challenging yet rewarding project that requires careful planning and the right tools. By following this guide and equipping yourself with these essentials, you’ll be well on your way to transforming your car into the fastback of your dreams. Remember, patience and attention to detail are key—take your time, measure twice, and don’t hesitate to ask for help along the way.
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Happy converting!
