I have an immediate need for an aluminum brake for bending chimney step and counter flashing. (16 ounce/24 gauge copper) I will most likely also need to bend fascia and window trim at a later time. I'd like something in the 8-10 foot range (thinking ahead here), but would settle for a smaller unit as cost is definitely an issue.
Based on this information, can anyone suggest a good source for obtaining a brake that will meet my needs? I'd prefer a used brake as $600+ is simply out of the budget for now. I've been searching ebay and local classifieds, but have come up dry. I've posted a "wanted" ad with the local paper hoping someone would come forward with a unit for sale. (I figure this is probably the best time of year to score a good deal) Anyone have any ideas? Places to look that sell used equipment?
PS... I assume a simple bending brake would suit my needs? Any reason to entertain box-and-pan brakes?
I like the flexibility/confidence of having the necessary tools at my disposal. I'd rather not have to rely on a fabricator unless absolutely necessary.
I'm trying to find something in the $400 range, but unless I come across someone getting out of the trade, I suspect I'm going to be stuck with a 30" to 48" light duty brake. (More than likely some type of benchtop model) One of these brakes should be fine for chimney flashing, but I obviously need a larger model for bending edge details. Would love to find a deal like yours, but I suspect that I'll end up in the fabricators shop before I do.
I always forget craigslist. Guess I need to get with the times. Sent a number of emails this morning, but all of the brakes have been sold. Just found another one posted an hour ago, so I'm waitibg to hear back from the seller. 10 footer for $275. Thanks guys!
Guy called me back and he still has the brake. It's about 13 years old, but still works well. Heading to see it this afternoon. $275 or best offer is what he's asking, which seems fair if it's in good working order.
Be sure to check over the large cast aluminum sections in the throat. If it's been dropped hard it's not uncommon for them to be broken, and I doubt they're cheap to replace.
Call me cynical, but I'd be extremely wary about a brake going that cheap.
It's a done deal, $250. Brake is a Tapco "Port-O-Brake". The bend handle is definitely retrofit and extremely rusted. (As are most of the screws) The hold down handle is on the far right side of the brake and operates properly.
After I clean it up and replace the rusted screws, I'm going to fabricate a new bend handle for it. Hell, a 10' brake for $250... I'm not complaining. I feel the price was fair. Will post a pic once it's all cleaned up. Thanks for all the input fellas!
Reason I ask... interesting change of circumstances. I bought that Windy for $250 on Wednesday. Needs some work... bend handle isn't original (but works), some rust/seized screws and needs a new vinyl strip. I came upon an ad from a guy in town who is willing to pay $300-$350 for a brake. I sent him an email and explained what I've got and we're now negotiating a price.
At the same time, I had posted a "want" ad earlier in the week for a brake and just last night got an email from a seller. He's got a Pro II brake with folding legs for $400. (The Windy I bought doesn't have legs) He also mentioned that the Pro II has a center locking lever as opposed to the end "sliding" lever on the Windy.
Sooo... assuming the Pro II is in good shape, I'm considering selling the Windy and paying the difference to buy the Pro II. Wondering if this wise though since I've seen replacement parts online for the Windy, but not for the Pro II? I really like the idea of the center locking lever and the included legs, but it's worthless unless I can get parts. Should I just stick with and fix up the Windy?
wow, you guys are getting new brakes for $1200 and used ones for $600.. around here a new one is about $1800 and used ones go for around $1000 to $1200 and thats without any of the extra's on them
i have seen brakes for sale for $5-700 but their totally wrote off, the blades are bent all the hell so when you bend a peice with say a 1 1/4" lip you get the 1 1/4" at the ends but have 1 1/2" in the middle or they dont lock down properly what not
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