If you want a fullsize mill or lathe, you might look in the classified section of the local paper and see what is available. The cost can run from $1,000 to $5,000 for quality used machinery. There are also some import tools on the market that have new prices very similar to that of used domestic equipment. Remember, the cost of the tooling can and will cost more than the machine. So, if you don't need a mill or a lathe, save your money, because these tools can be a real drain on your budget. Not to mention the fact that most garages and home-based shops are not equipped from a power perspective to support a mill or a lathe. You may need to install special wiring and/or additional circuits to power a mill or a lathe. Those costs need to be factored into the total cost.
As with any tool, once you have it, you learn to use it more, and your skills grow accordingly. I don't mean to imply that tools will give you skills. What they will give you is a greater capacity to try more things than you may be trying now. As your capacity grows, you will find that your capability grows.
Safety Glasses Whenever you are working with metal-cutting tools of any type, you need to use a good pair of safety glasses or goggles. Nothing can put a damper on the day like having to go to the emergency room to have a sliver of metal removed from your eye. You could cause long-term damage to your eye(s). Use a good pair of safety glasses, both at the track and the shop. The cost is very reasonable, and when you consider the alternative, they are worth their weight in gold.
Lighting Try to work in a well-lit environment. The results will be better if you are working in an environment where you can see. At the track, we are often forced to work in conditions that are less than perfect. When working in the shop, use a trouble light or a small portable light to make the work easier to see.
A Clean Work Area Keep your work area neat and free of clutter. Granted, it's difficult to do when you are in a real hurry and trying to get something accomplished under the gun. But if you take the time to clean up as you go, you will find the job much easier to accomplish.
A Fire Extinguisher Keep a fire extinguisher, or two, close by when you are working in the shop. Metal cutting can generate high temperatures, and sparks are created when cutting. Also, make certain you do not have any flammable materials close to where you are going to generate sparks.
Avoid Solvents Try to avoid getting solvents on your hands and/or clothing. Wear gloves or use some of the new products on the market that protect your hands while you are working around grease and solvents. Aprons are not just for cooking anymore. We know a lot more about the dangers of getting solvents on our skin now than we did 20 years ago. Take the time to protect yourself and your team members.
No Loose Clothing Do not wear loose clothing around machinery. It is very easy to get clothes caught in spinning, cutting tools. If you are wearing gloves, make sure they are snug and do not have any loose flaps or fibers that could snag or get caught in a machine.
No Oily Rags Don't let oil-soaked rags pile up in the shop. They are a real fire hazard. Dispose of them in a timely fashion.
Remember, racing is supposed to be fun; that is why we do it. Think about the tasks you will be doing and practice safety during the metal cutting process. We want you to keep having fun. -J.H.