Can you recommend a trainer please?

[Split Screen Bus]

Hello,

I'm a newbie so be gentle with me

I plan to restore a split screen VW and would like cutting & welding tuition and/or course recommendation in the Staffordshire/Shropshire areas please.

I have been told that the Telford group based in Telford do good courses, do you know anyone who has trained there? Are they any good?

Any other recommendations within an hour of Stafford would be much appreciated

Cheers

Jim

 

[Kent]

Mm.
Many of these courses are staffed by guys with little experience themselves
I don't know a better route than to find a man that can and does this daily and perhaps do them a favour.
If you do one make sure the instructor will demonstrate torch in hand before you part with any money

 

[Takson]

Im doing a bay window at the moment, and nearly got to a stage where we have finished the welding. I would definitely second what Kent says above. You will find so many different situations with a bus, especially a splity, that you are better off having a cash in hand pro come and help and learn from them. I learnt as much about preparation as I have the actual welding by watching, helping and doing, but the end result has meant I would now tackle most things.

I am certainly still no expert, but there are so many different techniques I have picked up on over the last 8 months. The key is definitely preparation.

A couple of tips.

1. Get hold of some 20mm self drilling screws for holding panels together before welding. (Screwfix are where I got mine)

2. Get a punch and flange tool for joining the panels. It will save you decades.

3. Give it a go. It is amazing the change you will find. When I started I wanted to buy all replacement panels as it would be easier. However, they don't fit and 9 times out of ten you can do better with a bit of work and fettling. I went to bus fest a few weeks ago and picked up a rear bumper, in need of tlc. I couldn't believe it when the people in front of me were commenting, 'how can he sell that. it is so rusty and knackered. I was desperate to barge in front of them and buy it because it was simple repairs. £20 for a bumper and hangers, when the store next door had the handers for £35 only.