Air Punch Flange Tool

70Duster440 said

If you have any amount of flanging to do, get one. They're worth it compared to doing it by hand. Also, they're typically available in two punch sizes. Get the larger of the two if you can. The smaller one is a little too small to do decent plug welds. You shouldn't have problems with rust if you can properly seal up the back side of the seam. Primer and a generous amount of seam sealer should do it.

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I agree. I have some penetrating rust preventer I spray in the seam on the back side before sealing it off. Lots of different seam sealers out there. I've used 3M 'fast and firm' and some from Kent.
Buttwelding is the 'preferred' method if you are a good welder. However, I'm getting too shaky and blind to do a nice job anymore! :angry7:
Dallas
BTW, I don't punch holes on quarter or patch panels and weld through them. I flange them, then make my patch (or grind my panel) just a little bit small so it leaves a little 'valley' between the panels on the flanged area. I then tack it in this valley. Works better than building up the weld on the outside and possibly grinding it too thin when you finish it. Keep skipping around with your tack welds until it's welded solid. Take your time and it won't warp.
Just curious Matt, where are you located in MO?