Posts Tagged ‘build’

How to Build a Stretch Limousine

Thursday, January 7th, 2010

It is somewhat envious when you see a limousine on the road and Build a Stretch Limousinewish that you owned one of them to use for your own pleasure. Purchasing one is absolutely just a dream because the vehicle is really expensive. However you can have the possibility of owning a stretch limousine in an affordable way by turning your car into one. Here are the instructions on how to build a stretch limousine.

Take You Car Apart

You need to take you car apart in order to build a stretch limousine. Remove all of the seats and interior paneling until the inside of the car is almost bare. Crawl under your car and take out the drive line and all the brake fluid lines that run along beneath the vehicle.

Slice Your Car Into Two

Do not forget to take out all the wiring that runs along the entire length of the vehicle. Then take out all the doors and side windows. Then cut the car in half using some metal cutting blades and a saw.

Go to the Wrecking Yard

When you saw the car in half make sure that you avoid the door lines to avoid some complexity as you build a stretch limousine. Ask for some assistance from a friend or family member to aid you in pulling the two halves of the car from each other. Set each of them up on blocks for safety. You can now go to a wrecking yard in your locality and look for a car that is similar to yours. Then take the midsection of that car to be used to build a stretch limousine of your own.

A Six-Door Stretch Limousine

With the midsection of the car from the wrecking yard already at your working place, you can now weld that part into the middle portion of the two halves as you continue to build a stretch limousine. Now the total number of doors that you have is six since you have two spare doors located at the back of your car. After the welding job is done, the welding seams must be grind and sanded for a smooth finish. Finish the bodywork using some bondo and a nice coat of primer paint for a sleek look.

Almost Done

You can now take it to a machine shop to help you put everything back together when you build a stretch limousine. Some of the interior panels from your old car won’t fit anymore and some would still do. Some upholstery work is needed to fit the design of your new stretch limousine. You will also need some extension for the wiring and some long brake lines. Once everything is in place, you can now take your limousine for a paint job. Now you are ready to take a drive around town with your very own stretch limousine and be envied by others.

How to Build a Radio Controlled Plane

Saturday, January 2nd, 2010

Not everybody is fortunate enough to be a real-liveBuild a Radio Controlled Plane pilot. The next best thing to it that one may be able to do is piloting a model airplane by remote control. But while many pilots cannot even build their own plane, anyone can learn how to build a radio controlled plane on their own.

Before one begins how to build a radio controlled plane, one would first have to decide if they want to design their own plane or if they should just assemble one from a model plane kit. For beginners, it would be better to go with the latter first. The materials that will be needed to put the model plane together are some sandpaper, a screwdriver, a workbench, paint, paintbrushes, glue, a knife, pliers, the remote control, and the remote receiver.

One will require a suitable space to work on the remote controlled plane as well as for storage. A spacious garage will do nicely for this purpose. Storing the plane in the garage would shelter it from harsh elements which may be damaging to it. Remove needless clutter from the garage in order to make the necessary working space. Gather the tools that will be used for assembling the plane. One should also place the workbench in an area where the tools can easily be accessed.

The parts of the model plane should be categorized so that important pieces will not be misplaced. They should also be stored to protect them from harmful elements. In the actual assembly of the plane, follow the set of directions that typically come in most model kits. They usually come with comprehensive steps and easy-to-follow diagrams to guide one in how to build a radio controlled plane, which includes piecing it together and wiring its electronic components.

If the model plane is made out of wood, one should make certain to sand the pieces down using sandpaper. This should be done while the plane is being built, as one will find it more difficult to sand down the completed model. Upon completion, the plane is applied with finish and then painted in however way that one would desire. One can paint any color or design that they wish to give their plane its own unique look.

After having finished how to build a radio controlled plane, it would then be time to take it on its maiden voyage. The test flight should be done outdoors, preferably out in a park where there will be plenty of space for the plane to soar through. If all goes well and the test runs smoothly, one can now enjoy the fun of piloting their own aircraft clear across the skies while still keeping their feet on the ground.

How to Build Deck Railings

Wednesday, December 30th, 2009

Aside from serving as a beautiful decorative feature, a Build Deck Railingsdeck railing is designed to serve as a reliable safety feature. Its primary purpose is to prevent people from falling off the deck area. In case you have an elevated deck at home, make it a safer place to stay by learning how to build deck railings.

Materials Needed

The primary materials you need to perform this easy task include an electric drill, a wood saw and a 2-inch-by-2-inch wood. Likewise, you have to prepare galvanized screws, a 2-inch-by-4-inch wood and carriage bolts. In addition, it can help a lot to have a paintbrush and an outdoor stain.

Steps

When planning to build deck railings, it is very important to base them on the rules set by the building codes of the area you are living in. For instance, every spindle must be at most 9 inches apart from each other. Likewise, the railing must stand at least 4-feet high. Calculate how much wood you need to complete this project and then buy them at the nearest hardware available.

Get the wood saw and then use it to cut the 2-inch-by-2-inch wood for the spindles. In every spindle, drill a couple of holes, one of which must be 1? inches from the bottom part of the deck. Put the second hole approximately 1? inches from the top part of the deck. These holes will serve as markers. They must be smaller than the carriage bolts.

Use the electric screwdriver to bolt the spindles in place. The use of carriage bolts is preferred because of their stability and strength. Flush the spindle pieces against the bottom part of the deck. Be careful with this step because even a simple mistake can be noticed easily.

Cut the 2-inch-by-4-inch wood into smaller pieces. Use a screw to attach each piece to every spindle piece. If necessary, combine two pieces of the cut 2-inch-by-4-inch wood to form a joint. Lastly, decorate the deck railings with a matching stain or simply paint them with your preferred color.

Additional Tips and Other Helpful Information

Making the right measurements can help you achieve better results. Committing errors can be costly because they will only prolong the process of completing this project. The more time you save, the more time you can have to improve the details of your work further.

It is better to buy pre-cut wood at the hardware store to make things a lot easier. While using power tools like the wood saw, protect your eyes from wayward debris by wearing safety goggles.

How to Build a Wrestling Ring

Friday, December 25th, 2009

Before you build a wrestling ring, determine the size of the Build a Wrestling RingBuild a Wrestling Ringpeople that will use it. The physical size of the individuals determines the materials you’ll need to buy and make.

Required Tools and Materials

Steel support (for the ring)
Canvas
Padding
Ropes
Steel posts
Spring coil or flexibeam
Wood planks
Nuts and bolts
Saw
Hammer

Step 1: Make the Ring Frame

Make the ring skeleton from the wood and steel materials. Make it about 3 ft high. Whether you’re using metal, wood or both, just stick to the basic shape. After you make the frame, add the ring posts. Position them on the four corners.

Step 2: Add the Wood Planks and Spring Coil

The next step to build a wrestling ring is to cut the wood planks. The average ring measures 14 to 18 sq ft. Cut the wood planks to the desired length and width. Set them over the steel / wood supports. Secure them in place.

Now put the spring coil in position. Check the spring coil package instructions on how to install them. Professional wrestling rings use flexibeam, so you can try them instead.

Step 3: Put on the Padding and the Canvas

Put the padding on top of the wood planks. The average padding is an inch thick but you can always make it thicker than that. Put the canvas over it. The thickness of the material also depends on the number of people who are going to use it.

Step 4: Installing the Ropes

The next step to build a wrestling ring is to secure the ropes on the posts. Fasten them tight but they need to be flexible enough so wrestlers can bounce off them.

Tie each of the three ropes so that a turnbuckle can be formed. Cover each turnbuckle with some padding (usually 6 inches in diameter). The ropes can be any kind; however they need to be at least an inch in diameter.

Step 5: Testing

Get on the ring and bounce up and down. Does it feel comfortable? Get another person in the ring with you. Try to be thrown off the ropes. Now is the time to test the thickness of the canvas and padding. Try a few wrestling moves to see if the canvas and padding are of the right thickness.

Tips and Warnings

After you build a wrestling ring, don’t neglect the part about your attire. Don some knee and elbow pads. The sport may be “fake”, but you could get hurt if you do the moves incorrectly. Be careful when practicing the maneuvers. Do not allow small children to try wrestling moves.

Clean the ring after being used; sweat and blood will make the surface slippery and could cause injury. Make sure you regularly inspect the spring coils and supports. Over time the supporting structure might break down. Check them out so accidents can be avoided. Replace any worn out parts.

You need patience to build a wrestling ring, but it can be done. When it is finished, let the show begin.

How To Build A Fence

Monday, December 21st, 2009

Before you build a fence, measure the Build A Fencearea you’re going to cover. This ensures you get the right amount of fence material.

Required Tools and Materials

Fence
Cement
Level
Nail gun
Digger
Wood sealer
String line
Shovel
Wood posts
Circular saw or chop saw

Position the Fence Posts

Position the posts six feet away from each other. Use the string line to keep the posts in position. Dig a hole 18 inches deep for each post. Insert the posts there. Mix the cement and pour them into the post holes. The cement should be filled so that it is level with the surface. Before you continue to build a fence, let the cement dry for 24 hours.

Finishing Touches

Slice the bottom and top of the fence rail. Nail these four feet away from each other. Install the pickets, making sure there’s ¼ inch space between them. Finally, you should saw any excessive wood from the top of the post.

Notes

Make certain the posts are level before you proceed; once the cement has solidified, you won’t be able to move it. Use the string line to ensure the posts are aligned correctly.

After the fence has been constructed, add a wood sealer. This will fortify the structure. When you build a fence, redwood or cedar is recommended.

Making a Fence Using Vinyl

Required Tools and Materials

Fence gate / vinyl
Wood posts
Cement
Screws and bolts
Gravel
Shovel
String
Hammer

Set up the Area

First decide on the dimensions of the fence you want to make. Mark the location of the gate and the posts. Use the string to mark the boundary of the fence.

Create and Position the Posts

Cut the wood posts to the desired length (i.e., 4 x 4s). Position them in the areas you marked. Fasten the strings between the corner posts. Gauge the dimensions of the fence panels. For instance, you can put 5 x 5 posts for 6 ft panels.

Continue to build a fence by digging holes for the posts. Make it 10 inches in diameter. Fill the hole by 5 inches. Pour the cement mix in the hole. Put the posts in the cement mix. Adjust the posts’ position before the cement gets dry.

Connect the nail brackets on the posts. Put the panels in the brackets. Secure them using bolts and screws. Add the gate. The opening should be 1 ¼” wider than the width of the gate. The posts and the gate should have a space of 5/8” for both sides. Add some 2 x 4s on the insides of the gate.

Tips and Warnings

Consult the local government authorities before you start construction. This is necessary so you don’t plant posts along any underground pipes or structures. You’ll need help if you’re going to make a large fence. Wear gloves and protection for your eyes when working.

Whatever material you use to build a fence, make sure the measurements are correct. Also make sure the posts are strong so the fence will hold up.

How to Build a Plywood Sailboat

Thursday, December 17th, 2009

To build a plywood sailboat, you’ll need some Build a Plywood Sailboatwoodworking and carpentry experience. Get some help from your knowledgeable friends if possible.

Required Tools and Materials

Design plans
Epoxy
Paint
Fiberglass tape
Duct tape
Spar varnish
Circular saw
Plywood material

Step 1

Design the sailboat on paper (you can use a CAD program too). Note down the dimensions of the vessel. Make it as detailed as possible. When you buy the supplies, go for the highest quality lumber you can afford.

Step 2

Mark the plywood materials so you’ll know where to cut. For the best results, trace the shape of the hull, the back section and the bottom.

Step 3

To build a plywood sailboat, cut the plywood pieces to the appropriate lengths. If you want, you can make the sail, the mast and the other components. Arrange the major pieces of the boat in front of you. Set the mast, seats and other pieces you shaped aside for now.

Step 4

Put some epoxy on the plywood comprising the right section of the boat. Add some fiberglass and duct tape on it. Put the adhesives on the other hull parts and join them together. The adhesives should be put on the joints and seams inside the vessel. Allow it to dry then put more adhesives on the outer seams of the boat. Allow it to dry.

Step 5

The next step to build a plywood sailboat is to install the sail and mast. Put adhesive on the area where you’ll put the mast. Put the mast on. Install the sail when the mast has dried.

Step 6

Now you furnish the boat. Add the seats, storage area etc. You can also install oars; these will help the boat move in case there’s no wind.

Step 7

Use marine paint for the sailboat. They are more durable than house paint. Allow the paint to dry completely. The more layers you add, the longer it will take time to dry.

Tips and Warnings

The size of the sailboat determines the amenities you can install. When you build a plywood sailboat for the first time, try to keep it simple. You can always modify or make a bigger boat later on. Bring only the basic stuff on your first sail; packing and unpacking them can be difficult.

A regular check up of the sailboat is necessary. Aside from the paint, look for any cracks along the seams and joints. Inspect the boat before and after you utilize it. Don’t go sailing if you have no prior experience. At the very least bring a cellphone or other communications device with you.

Always check the weather first. You’ll want some breeze but nothing too excessive. Never go sailing if there’s a threat of storm or heavy rain. Wait for the weather to clear up.

It takes a lot of work to build a plywood sailboat, but the satisfaction you’ll get will be worth it. When construction is finished, you’ll finally have a sea vessel to captain and steer.

How to Build a Flagstone Patio

Wednesday, December 16th, 2009

It’s much easier to build a flagstone Build a Flagstone Patiopatio than other types that use concrete. Before buying the necessary materials, measure the area so you know how big the patio will be.

Required Tools and Materials

Rake
Rough sand
Level
Mallet
Shovel
Watering hose
Broom
2 x 4 scrap of wood
Safety goggles
Rubber tubing
Flagstone pavers (2 inches thick)
Chisel

Step 1

Pick a site that is level. Rake the soil until the surface is uniform. If there isn’t a flat area, dig a hole and pour concrete mix in it. Let it dry.

Step 2

Mark the patio area with the rubber tubing or a hose. For a circular patio, use a center marker and fasten a radial piece of string to it.

Step 3

To build a flagstone patio, dig up 3 inches of soil from the site. Flatten it with a level and the 2 x 4 wood. Now pour an inch of sand from the top edge. Keep raking until the surface is smooth.

If necessary, flatten the surface again with the 2 x 4 and the level. Turn on the hose and sprinkle water until the sand gets moist. Pack the sand in with a mallet or a hand tamper.

Step 4

Now it’s time to add the flagstone pavers. Bring the pavers to the site (if you haven’t already). When you build a flagstone patio, begin from the outside edges. Work your way from there until you get to the middle.

Start by adding the largest pieces first. When they are installed, add in the smaller pieces to cover up the gaps. Use the level to make sure all the pavers are even.

If all the pavers are the same shape, break some of the bigger ones into smaller pieces. Measure the size needed by the small gaps. Take some of the larger pieces and cut them according to the required dimensions. Just score the stone with the chisel.

Set the chisel on the scored surface and hit it with the mallet. Hit gently so the stone doesn’t completely shatter. Set them in place.

Step 5

After you build a flagstone patio’s outer layer, you can remove the rubber tubing or hose. Make sure you don’t break up the layer. Pour more sand over the flagstones. Get the broom. Sweep the sand into the paver cracks and crevices.

Hose the entire patio area. Look over the patio. If there are more cracks, fill it with more sand. Repeat as often as necessary.

Tips and Warnings

Buy a third more than the needed materials so you have some in reserve. When pouring in the sand, make sure they are below the large flagstone pieces. Put on eye goggles when cutting the stones with the chisel. Wear gloves when carrying the flagstone pavers and cutting the pieces. Take breaks if you are tired.

Trying to build a flagstone patio sounds more complicated than it actually is. Once you get started, you’ll be amazed at how quickly work proceeds.

How to Build a Trailer

Friday, December 11th, 2009

It’s not that hard to build a trailer, Build a Trailerand it is much cheaper than buying a new one. Follow the instructions below so you can start making a trailer with an open top.

Required Tools and Materials

Plywood
Trailer lights
Power drill
Hammer
Box of nuts and bolts
16 L brackets
Screws
Screwdrivers
2 x 4s
Saw
Base trailer
Wiring

Step 1

Start by determining the dimensions of the trailer. When you get the figures, buy the lumbers. Procure a bit more than the required lumber. It will cost more but it’s better to have a few extra lumbers in case they’re needed. Prepare all the plywood and the tools.

Step 2

To build a trailer, get the plywood baseboards. Bolt them to the metal components of the trailer. These usually have metal rods into which the baseboards can be installed. Proceed only when all the baseboards are bolted in. When it’s done, move on to the next step.

Step 3

Now you can work on the trailer sides. Get the screws and screwdrivers. Fasten one end to the baseboard and the other to the sidewalls. This step is important; it will prevent the structure from collapsing.

For this trailer, you only need 5 inches of sideboards. If you’re going to build a trailer that goes beyond the basics, bigger sideboards will be necessary.

Step 4

Now it’s time to connect the walls. You’ll need the L brackets for this task. You will utilize one end on each of the sideboards and link them to each other. You also need to fasten the boards on the baseboards as well.

Step 5

Check that all the L brackets and bolts are fastened on tight. Don’t put anything on the trailer until you’re sure everything is tight. Note: you will need to fasten the bolts every couple of months or so.

Step 6

The final step to build a trailer is to install the lights. Attach them to the back of the trailer. Install the wiring so it plugs into the truck’s trailer light. Test the lights to see if it’s working.

Tips and Warnings

Make the trailer as big as you need it to be. You don’t want something too small, but creating an excessively large trailer will make your work harder. Inspecting your trailer regularly is a must.

Even if you build it right, the components will be subject to wear and tear. If the state / city law requires the trailer to be subjected to their tests, follow the rules. Even if there’s no such rule, have it inspected anyway.

It’s easy enough to install the wiring. But if you don’t know how to install them, have someone do it for you. Before you make a trip, check both the trailer and the truck. They both need to be in good condition.

As you can see, a few simple tools and wood boards are all that’s needed to build a trailer. With regular maintenance, it will be able to serve you for many years.

How to Build a Shower Base

Wednesday, December 9th, 2009

As long as you have the following equipment, Build a Shower Baseyou’ll be able to build a shower base. Have the following paraphernalia by your side before you begin.

Required Tools and Materials

Lumber
Drain
Stapler
Mortar
Roofing felt
Wire mesh
Level
Shower pan liner
Trowel
Deck mud (no additive mortar)
Plastic sheeting
Wonder board (backer board)

Step 1

For the shower wood frame, cut 3×4” plywood and put them over 2 x 10 joists. You can also use the 2 x 10 between the walls. For the front curb, set the 2 x 4s flat. If it’s a brick wall, nail a 1 x 10 on the sheeting.

Step 2

Continue to build a shower base by putting the roofing belt at the bottom. This will afford slippage between the tile and wood. It also lets the mortar dry.

Step 3

Staple the wire mesh on the plywood. Put the bottom flange at the drain assembly.

Step 4

Combine the latex additive with the mortar for the pre-sloped base for the liner. Put down a shower bed (1 ¼” farthest and tapering it 3/8” thick at the drain). The highest point will depend on the size of your shower. Pack the mortar and level it. Eliminate any bumps on it.

Step 5

Allow 24 hours to pass before you continue to build a shower base. Fold the corners. Carefully slice the hole for the drain. Seal between the liner and the flange.

Step 6

Get the wire mesh and cover both sides. Put the wire mesh on the top curb also. Staple only on the outside sections. Line the walls using the cement board. To prevent wicking, leave a gap just above the floor of the pan.

Step 7

Put the drain top and its screws onto the flange. Utilize spacers so the drain is raised an inch for the mud. It also needs to be 1/8” raised for the tile. Put the deck mud on the top of the pan. Put some on the tile base too. Again, make sure there are no rough / bump spots when you build a shower base. Level it.

The whole curb should be covered as well. Put ½” on the outside and 1” on top. Slope the top a bit into the shower. Depending on the tile, you may choose to thicken the sides. Use a level to make sure everything is uniform.

Tips and Warnings

Measure the dimensions of your bathroom before starting. This will allow you to get the right amount of materials. Take your time when making the shower base. Make sure you mix the mortar and latex additive thoroughly.

Take careful note of the measurements so you don’t make mistakes. Again, do not use deck mud with any additive mortar; it will affect the stability of the entire structure. As for the wood, get the best that you can afford.

By getting the right type of materials, you’ll be able to build a shower base with ease. All it takes is patience and perseverance.

How to Build an Outdoor Pizza Oven

Monday, December 7th, 2009

If you want to build an outdoor pizza oven, Build an Outdoor Pizza Ovenyou’ll need to gather the following equipment. This will take some time, but it can be done.

Required Tools and Materials

Bricks
Shovel
2 x 4s
Concrete mixture
Tape measure
Concrete blocks
Mortar

Step 1

Decide where you want to put the oven. The area should be large enough for the structure. At the same time there should be space for you to move around. Make sure the area isn’t cramped. Make sure the oven doesn’t get in the way of people walking about.

Step 2

Use the tape measure to determine how wide it will be. Dig a hole 5 inches deep and make it as wide as desired. Place some wood along the pit’s sides. Fill the hole with concrete mix. Before you continue to build an outdoor pizza oven, allow the concrete to dry.

Step 3

Now you have to make the fire encasement. Get the brick’s width. Draw a line on the concrete slab equal to the brick’s width, but add two inches on the perimeter. Put the slabs along three of the sides.

Add the bricks outside the concrete block you set up. Stack the bricks until they are two feet high. Add mortar between the bricks and concrete blocks.

Step 4

Use the 2 x 4s to make supports for the fire encasement. Make a hole for the door and cut a piece of plywood. Put the plywood on the support. As you build an outdoor pizza oven, add more 2 x 4s on the plywood. Pour in concrete. Allow the concrete to dry.

Step 5

When the concrete is dry, stack the bricks for the cooking area. Leave a space for the door. To make the stone arch, set the bricks sideways in an arch like manner. Start from the back and work your way from there.

Step 6

Add more bricks outside the oven. Leave a small opening at the top so it can function as a chimney. Let the whole structure dry. When it’s dry, you can start using it.

Tips and Warnings

After you build an outdoor pizza oven, you can paint the structure. You can also use bricks of different colors to make it more attractive. Do not put any dry or flammable materials near the oven. The temperature in the oven can go up to 800 F. Make sure you stay a safe distance from the oven when using it.

Planning ahead is important. Before you get the supplies, get the dimensions of the oven so you don’t run out of bricks and concrete blocks.

This project can be done by a single individual. But if you’re making a large oven, getting help for assembling the bricks will be handy. It‘s also a good idea to make a template of the arch design. This will help you put the bricks in their proper place.

After you build an outdoor pizza oven, you can call your friends and start the cooking / eating festivities.