wanted: sheet aluminum

[pabble]

I'm looking for less than a 4'x8' sheet of 5086 or 5052 sheet aluminum, either 5/16 or 3/8 thickness. I'm making a transom extension to hang outboard motors on so may be able to use scrap pieces. I live in Iowa and am trying to avoid shipping costs and full sheet prices so am hoping someone may have what I'm looking for as a leftover in their shop. I will be driving to Annapolis next week and could pick up at any point along the way, or shipping would be OK also. Any info on this, or cheapest prices for aluminum would be much appreciated.

[mydauphin]

I am sure there are aluminum resellers in every major city is US. Look Around. You probably need T's and other plates to design something strong. I doubt anyone is going to give you aluminum - I would concentrate on good design and find aluminum from distributor that can sell you what you need wholesale. I buy from http://www.adimetal.com/, but there are many nationwide companies.

[pabble]

Thanks for your quick and helpful reply. I've gotten quotes extensively but in the midwest they don't typically stock aluminum suitable for salt water environments...so there is increased shipping cost. But the main point is that I don't need a full sheet and would like to avoid shipping cost by picking it up myself when traveling - didn't expect anything for free and wasn't suggesting anything other than paying a fair price. I have the original manufacturers design (Zodiac) for the transom extension and am making modifications to an exisiting one; just need the materials. I'll check with the source you offered and much appreciate the info. thanks. bryan

[timgoz]

Bryan,

Find someone in Annapolis before going East and make a phone contact. That way you will know if they have it, and at what cost. I am positive you will find what you need in that area, as it is a boating & ship epicenter.

Take care & good hunting.

Tim

look, you are too heavy for a pod, if you are designing it correctly, use 6mm, or 5mm, plate, (all stuff over 1/8 or 3mm, is called plate not sheet) then use a piece of 3/8 or 10 for the actually motor mtg, surface with stiffeners behind that plate, , you will need to span those to take up your through bolts, or use packers, I will try dig out some photos of pods I have on boats

[pabble]

thanks for the input...found the materials. I'm working directly from the manufacturers plans on the design and materials specs so feel confident in that regard, but thanks for the suggestions.

[timgoz]

Pabble,

Hope things work out well. Keep us posted as to your progress. There is alot of knowledge here, do not think twice about asking for help, or advice.

Take care Sir.

Tim