Noob Spring straightening Question

B

bmd

Joined
Mar 12, 2009
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2
Ok. I have searched for three days to see what the proper and most efficient(basic tools available) way to straighten the springs beside my garage for use and found nothing. I am using the info in the noob section to make my first knife. I realize it says to buy straight metal but we have no auto axle etc shops. Every where I asked (body shops, mechanics etc.)said use springs from dead vehicles.
Also, I have also tried to get a member ship to use the search ability but it will not recognize my adress for some reason when I try to purchase.

So if anyone has the time for a suggestion it would be greatly appreciated.
 
I can't help you, except I can tell you how to search the forum. Go to google type in whatever phrase you're looking for along with "site:bladeforums.com"
 
what the proper and most efficient(basic tools available) way to straighten the springs beside my garage
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Heat. You're going to need a lot of heat, such as that from a forge or rosebud torch to straighten out those springs. Are you planning on forging the blades to shape or stock removal? If you're just doing stock removal then a torch might be all you'll need.

I would recommend staying at least 5 or more feet away from the side of your garage while using a high heat source like a forge or rosebud.

http://www.google.ca/search?hl=en&q=site:bladeforums.com+how+to+forge&btnG=Search&meta=
 
Why not just purchase your steel from someone like Admiral Steel? It is not that expensive, and you will know exactly what steel it is. There are more than just one specific steel used in auto springs.
 
Thanks to eminart I figured out how to search without being a member and found the answers I was looking for without having to bother anyone. The answers I found were exactly what you said ERB. Now I will use the same system to figure out why I can't get the system to take my card so I can be a member. Thanks to all.
 
If you REALLY want to use the springs you have, I have done it on many leaf springs. Take a piece of leaf spring, clamp it down to a steel table or a table with some straight steel clamped to it, heat it up with a torch or rosebud, til about cherry red, and gradualy clamp the piece you are straightening down onto the table. A little bit at a time is the key here or you will pucker the material. That's not what you want.:mad: Go slow and you will not have problems and you just might learn somethin on the way. Doesn't take that long. Once you have the entire piece clamped down flat, remove the clamps, heat the whole piece back up,(this will take a bit) and clamp another flat piece of steel on top of your spring. You are kinda making a hot spring sandwich at this point if that makes sense. Clamp at each end and in the middle, then let cool to room temp. This whole process is infinitely easier if you decide ahead of time that you need say a 12" piece of steel and cut it off first, instead of trying to heat and straighten an entire spring.
Good Luck,:thumbup:
Matt Doyle
 
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