Hi everybody! I had grand plans to convert an old steel MTB into an Omnium-style cargo bike, but I’m hitting a wall. I joined a local maker’s shop here in Southern California that has most of the equipment I need–mills, drill presses, saws, files, TIG machines, torches, etc.–but I’m having trouble finding anyone nearby with frame building experience. No one at the maker’s space knows about tube notching or brazing, for instance, and only one instructor has experience TIG welding frames.
Hey Slowbike. I wish you were on the other side of the country as we are in somewhat the same situation. I have been a member at a maker space for 4 years now. 3 years to fabricate jigs and tool up, and I’m finally starting to weld this past year. It’s called Synergy Mill in Greenville, SC.
I have learned a lot from this forum and watching various YouTube videos. I have leaned on some local folks and knowledge (Ben Land for instance), but probably learned the most from internet based sources.
If you haven’t seen Cobra Frame Building, Pithy Bikes, or Thrifty Frame Builder on YouTube definitely check them out.
I miter tubes like how Joe from Cobra describes in his YouTube videos on mitering. Using the milling machine and hole saws. But a lot of frame builders just cut and file.
For welding, just know it is going to be more about practice than anything else. But there is also “no right answers” either. Each welder has there way of doing things for whatever works for them.
Good miters lead to good welds.
If there is someone at your maker space that has bike frame TIG experience, consider yourself lucky. They should at least be able to get you off on the right foot.
Have you tried a search here under “Los Angeles”? That might help a little.
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I am in Los Angeles
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Hey man, I’m a frame builder in LA but I’m a composites guy. I don’t weld.
But checkout Relámpago Wheelery. They are in the K-town/Rampart area. They make exactly what you are trying to make. I’m sure Jimmy can help you out. Tell him Hern sent you.
Hi! Mind if I message you?
Thanks so much, I will! Frame building expertise is non existent down here below the Orange Curtain.
Yeah, I don’t know how the DMs work in this forum. This is probably my 4th post. You can email me at hern@momtenegro-mfg.com or IG @montenegro_mfg
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I live in south oc trying to get a derailleur hanger welded to my frame with horizontal drop outs. Who did you find to work on your project? Or are you up and welding now?
Hi there, I did not end up finding anyone. I joined a local maker’s space and practiced quite a bit, but they were have consistent issues with their TIG machines, so I canceled my membership. I haven’t purchased a welding setup yet, but I plan to at some point.
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Well let me know your progress and if you ever want someone to shoot the crap with about ideas. One of my mates is a metal worker and knows how to weld but not that interested to build stuff (yet).
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Hi Slowbike -
I am down in North SD County. Are you in OC? Or further South?
I am just a hobbyist, but willing to help how ever I can. I have built a couple of frames now and just enjoy the process. Feel free to message me if you want to chat.
Take care - Devin
Hey Devin! I’m in Costa Mesa. I’ll message ya.