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  • 06-20-2008, 02:27 PM
    Peter Williams
    Compiling a list of tools needed for rack building...
    So far I've built three very nice melamine racks, and in my journey I've discovered several tools which are invaluable to building a rack. When I start a new one, I like to not have to dig around to find all my tools. So to prevent this I am buying a toolbox to store all my rack building supplies. I've started a pretty comprehensive list of things I need to gather up, and I'm just looking for some input on anything I may have left out, or tools that you guys find very useful as well.

    Ok, here's the list:

    Measuring tape
    Chalk Line
    Pencil
    Particle board screws
    2 drills (one for drill bit, one for screw bit, I hate changing back and forth every 2 seconds)
    Drill & screw bit set
    Iron-on melamine finishing tape
    Melamine tape edge trimmer
    Soldering Iron (rack building includes doing the flexwatt too!)
    Solder
    Pliers
    3/4" pipe brackets (for the RDR conduit pipe escape protection)
    screw caps (to cover all those ugly screws when your done)
    Electrical tape
    Aluminum tape
    Packing tape
    Duct tape
    Iron
    Right angle assembly clamps
    Scissors
    Level
    Extension cord

    That's all I got for now, any additions?
  • 06-20-2008, 02:49 PM
    twh
    Re: Compiling a list of tools needed for rack building...
    good job,the only thing i might add is a 2' drywall square.i use this for pencil lines to make sure screws are centered in the shelfs on the side of the rack.have fun !
  • 06-20-2008, 02:54 PM
    Peter Williams
    Re: Compiling a list of tools needed for rack building...
    Quote:

    Originally Posted by twh View Post
    good job,the only thing i might add is a 2' drywall square.i use this for pencil lines to make sure screws are centered in the shelfs on the side of the rack.have fun !

    thats what i use the chalk line for, i make a sort of grid as i go to know where the screws go
  • 06-20-2008, 02:55 PM
    Freakie_frog
    Re: Compiling a list of tools needed for rack building...
    Table saw to make the cuts your self, Mitar saw to cut rails and up rights. Counter sink (trust me you want to use this) and a framing square and quik square. When it comes to rack if your off a little or off alot.
  • 06-22-2008, 05:03 AM
    Gloryhound
    Re: Compiling a list of tools needed for rack building...
    This is my main list for building a tub rack.

    Tools:
    Folding rule
    Framing square
    combination square
    Pencil
    chalk line
    circular saw
    Saw horses (I hate working on the ground)
    extension cord (12 gauge minimum)
    Miter saw
    90 degree right angle drill
    Cordless drill
    Drill index
    caulking gun
    Phillips head drill adapter
    Flex Watt crimping tool (made by Amp connectors)
    wire strippers/cutters
    Phillips screw driver
    Flat tip screw driver (open paint)
    Paint stir stick
    Roller paint pan
    Paint roller
    Paint brush

    Material:
    Melamine shelving (proper size is dependent on tub)
    1X2's
    1X4's for base
    1 1/4" drywall screws
    foil tape
    Electrical tape
    Tubs
    3/16 inch piece of paneling for spacer (Usually scrap stuff I have laying around)
    1/4" dowel rod for holding pins
    2 MFD 4X8 sheet for sides (adjust depending on size of rack. May actually use more shelving depending on design depth.)
    Flex Watt
    Flex Watt connector kit
    Power strip (1 plug per shelf)
    House hold extension cord for each piece of flex watt
    High gloss Latex paint (Outdoor is really the best as it completely seals, but indoor will work)
    Caulking tubes
    Elmer's wood glue

    End Results:
    http://mysite.verizon.net/david_amon...G.w560h747.jpg
    http://mysite.verizon.net/david_amon...es/15qt2X9.JPG
  • 10-20-2008, 10:04 PM
    JayBP
    Re: Compiling a list of tools needed for rack building...
    I think this thread should be stickied. It's very useful for people looking to build racks and enclosures like myself.
  • 10-23-2008, 09:09 AM
    LarryS
    Re: Compiling a list of tools needed for rack building...
    These quick change flip countersink kits are an awesome little tool to have around. I use mine all the time.

    It eliminates the time consuming drill and drive between bit changes or as stated earlier it takes the place of having to have two drills.

    http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/ima...766826&sr=1-22
  • 10-23-2008, 09:28 AM
    Somed00d
    Re: Compiling a list of tools needed for rack building...
    I use a table saw with a dado blade to cut grooves for any racks that are using 4" flexwatt.. could also be done with a router if you don't have the saw/blade.
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