The 'E' Type Forum

Bill, Thank you for a very detailed analysis. Shrinking was never my first option and I was hoping that most of the louvers could be straightened by other methods. As for the area in the second ellipse, it does appear to be stretched but I couldn't understand how that might have happened. As my vehi...

Bill,

I can understand your logic that using a planishing hammer could stretch the metal. My tinsman mallet would be too big for the louvers, but I could easily pick up a small nylon one and give it a try.

Many thanks
Denis

Bill,
I have had a shrinking hammer for more than 30 years and have never used it. When I heat shrink metal I use a smooth face hammer. I have never thought of using a tinsman mallet, wouldn't the hot metal damage to the mallet?

Denis

Jack and Geoff,

Thank you both for the advice. I should be able to work with that.

Denis

About to start restoring my bonnet and apart from the rust, some of the louvers are bent.

Are there any do's and don'ts when tackling this problem?