Tech tips

About Tech Tips - Microsoft Power Point required to view files

The Hot Rod Institute Tech Tips section of our website is here to provide you with helpful insight into fabrciation techniques. Here will be periodically posted videos and powerpoint presentations to help you get through some of the basics. » read more

Basic Sheet Metal Fab Tools You Can't Live Without

There are many different ways to come up with the same results in sheet metal fabrication.  I have been exposed to many very cool tools over the years, but these are the bare minimum tools I prefer to do most sheet metal fabrication projects.  My intent is not to tell you what tools you need to do sheet metal fab, but to tell you what my personal favorites are. » read more

Chop Top Considerations

There isn't a customizing process cooler than chopping the top, lowering the lid, or giving your ride a haircut. Although the decision "To Chop or Not To Chop" is a no brainer, the process of chopping the top is much more involved. Here are a few considerations to keep in mind while deciding on your chop. » read more

Advanced Sheet Metal Fabrication Tools

Although sheet metal fabrication is not impossible with out some of the larger sheet metal tools, it sure makes the process easier.  Here are a few of the large sheet metal tools that can come in handy. » read more

Real Fire Tips

True Fire (Real Fire, Realistic Fire) is one of today’s most requested custom paint techniques, as well as being one of the most difficult techniques to master. Here are a few tips to creating your own True Fire. » read more

How to Paint Flames

One of the coolest, not to mention one of the oldest of the custom paint applications is the venerable hot rod flames.  There are quite a few different styles to this look altering process.  » read more

Hand Pin Striping

The art of Hand Pin Stripping and Lettering dates back far before the guys started "hopping up" their rides, but the art for definitely took a turn for the better as guys began to use Pin Stripping to further the detail on their rides. Here is a few tips when starting to learn hand pin stripping. » read more

TIG Welding for Custom Cars and Bikes

Custom Car and Bike building takes certain skills, and welding is in the forefront.  Although metal can be joined in a few different ways, the most prefered way to weld metal by today's top shops is TIG welding.  Here is a primer on the art of TIG welding. » read more

Shaving Door Handles

Hot Rodders have always tried to find a way to make thier cars sleeker and sexier.  Nothing beats the shaved look.  Here are a few tips on shaving your ride. » read more

Motorcycle Tips

More and more people are riding motorcycles these days. Here are a few tips to keep your bike in tip top shape and ready to ride. » read more

Custom paint tips - color

Nothing can make or break a custom car, truck, or bike quicker than its paint job. Understanding the principals of the color wheel is very important when doing any type of painting. » read more
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