Where to get custom metal parts fabricated?

[sailingunity]

We need a new aluminum winch base for our main mast, and over time I'll be needing several other custom metal parts made. I emailed a couple of the online machine shops that claim they do one off parts and haven't gotten any responses. Where do you guys usually source your custom parts from?

Located in Jacksonville, FL if that helps any.

[Allied39]

You are best locating a local shop if possible. I know there's one by the entrance to green cove springs marina, dealt with him once, seemed good. But there's likely to be a few about.

You will need to get your finnished parts anodized.....there's no one around Jacksonville worth talking to,(David Russell Anodizing, sth of here did not bother to return calls) but I did find Quickturn Anodizing in Kentucky. I have not used them yet, actually removing a hatch base and sending it their way today, so I should be able to give up the the minute feedback on them soon.....but they seem good and actually respond and talk to me like I am a valued customer.....seems to be a rare thing these days.

[SVTatia]

Originally Posted by sailingunity

We need a new aluminum winch base for our main mast...

I can't help you from here, but I also need a winch base for my mast and I am looking at stainless sheet bent at the endges to accommodate the mast angle at the location. Much like the one below. If you find an aluminun one I'll be interested also.

[Gpser44]

I have used powder coating instead on snoozing. Much readily available.

[Bill whitmore]

CAM Machine in Bristol RI

[GWilly]

I recently used Metal Supermarkets for some custom fabricated metal work. It’s a national chain, I see they have locations in FL, including in Jacksonville. You might try them. Check out their web site first. Good luck!

[Don C L]

Go to the nearest docks with commercial fishing boats and ask the skippers where they get their fabrications done... they have stuff made for them all the time. I bet they'll know the best local shops.

[KidSheeleen]

I've had metal parts made by Mac's Metal Materials & Welding in Charlotte Harbor FL. 4212 Whidden Blvd Port Charlotte FL 33980 941-627 6977

Had to have one part redone as did not fit (my poor measurements) they redid at no cost.

[Chotu]

Definitely go to the metal shop right next to Green Cove Springs Marina. The guy is outstanding. He gets it done correctly and will save you a bundle.

[Russ]

Apple machine in Ft Pierce FL. Very reliable. Russ

[artisanmach]

I just made my own

[BenBowSirocco]

For a winch base its probably going to end up about the same money, but easier to make one from G10.

Make a pattern of the mast profile with cardboard/plywood, measure off a 1/4" inch from the lowest point on the pattern profile and then draw your perpendicular line.

This give you the thickness of the G10 to order. Shape it with a grinder or spindle sander. Coat with paint.

G10 is very easy to work with and immensely strong. Treat it like metal- but you can fill it with epoxy and it never corrodes.

What Don says is wisdom though.

[skipmac]

Originally Posted by Chotu

Definitely go to the metal shop right next to Green Cove Springs Marina. The guy is outstanding. He gets it done correctly and will save you a bundle.

I haven't used him myself but several boat owners at Green Cove highly recommended him.

[Brewgyver]

For a something as seemingly ubiquitous as a winch pad, why not try the mast maker? Selden, for example, lists them on their website. Or is it the case that it's faster and cheaper to get one fabb'ed locally?

[David M]

Just don't tell them it is for a boat. They will charge you three times as much.