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How to Make V-Shaped Brackets & Rods

Making a v-shaped bracket or rod can be done in your garage or workshop by bending a length of steel or metal. This is done by using heat to first soften the metal and then work it into the desired angle or shape. The materials and tools required for this project can be obtained at a local home improvement store.

Things You'll Need

Steel rod
Felt tip marker
Bench vise
Propane or oxyacetylene torch
Work gloves
Eye protection (goggles)

Instructions

- 1
  Make a mark on the steel rod where it needs to be bent with the felt tip marker. Insert the steel rod into the bench vise. Position the mark on the steel rod at the edge of the vise.
- 2
  Apply heat at the mark on the steel rod with the propane torch. You can also use an oxyacetylene torch if one is available. Heat the steel rod evenly until the area becomes a bright red-orange color.
- 3
  Turn off the propane or oxyacetylene torch and put on the work gloves. Grab the end of the steel rod.
- 4
  Pull the steel rod back along the edge of the bench vise to create a bend. Strike the steel rod above the heated area to increase the angle of the bend to make a "V" shape.
- 5
  Remove the rod from the vise and set it aside to cool. You can also insert the rod in a bucket of cold water.

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