Is there a tool that does this that I could buy (I asked around and nobody had a good answer)? My other options are a bfh or bring them to an exhaust shop and have them put a lip on each one for me.

 

what size/material?

 

Something like this? http://www.sears.com/shc/s/p_10153_1...0070921x00003a

Similar can be found at any auto parts store.

 

2 options I've always been fond of:

1. Use JB weld. Its cheap, it works. Just be sure to prep the pipe properly.

2. DIY beader

 

it's 2.5" aluminum, I really like the homebrew beader...perhaps I will make one. When I inquired about tools similar to the one at sears at napa, advanced auto, and others they came up with nil.

 

I did a DIY roller. Instead of the washer on the vicegrips (couldn't find a good one) I just bent the U-bolt tighter, cut it down to about 1.5" and used that.
--Alex

 

I love that stuff. I have all the materials in my tool cart. Well except for the welder. The reason why I'm not an effective diy'er at the moment.

 

The link for the sears tool is a pipe expander not a bead roller. I don't think that'll work on aluminum, it'll probably tear.

This is a cheap version of the proper tool:

- Harbor Freight Tools - Quality Tools at the Lowest Prices

Although I bought it and took it back because it flexes to much to leave a clean bead. The plier trick may work better.

 

Huh, I'd never even thought of that.

The Dude abides.

 

Ive always just welded a bead because i didnt know how to flare it

 

I don't know if you are looking for strictly a bead or a flare. But the last time I did it, I just used an adjustable wrench and tightened it over the edge of the pipe and bend it out a bit at a time until you have a satisfactory flare all the way around. It's not terribly pretty, but effective.

 

That is what I was going to suggest too!
Stephanie

 

The best tool for the job

Bead Form Tools by Kramer Metal Fab, Inc. 1-800-919-3676

Dam expensive however. I found a shop that has one and rent the use of it very resonably. Makes perfect beads so you never have to worry about hoses popping off again.

Bob

 

Nice... I can put that DIY setup to use at the moment.

 

Well I have the goods to build the diy beader. I'll post up the results tomorrow.

 

DIY beader worked like a champ but only on the thin stuff. Thick aluminum scoffed at my feable attempt to put a lip on it. I am going to give it the fury of my vice when I get home...see how those pipes like that!

 

2 days left

 

Damn you! Why do you have to remind me!?

 

hmm.DIY beader with heavy duty motor or with some gears and a crank for thicker material might work.