Set Up Garage Workshop
Article by Mark Trotta
None of us have enough time or space for our old car projects.
What will help is to organize our workspace better.
********************
From making a simple workbench to utilizing high ceilings for overhead storage, here are some tips for getting more organized in the garage.
Workbench
The 'nucleus' of a garage workshop is generally the workbench, with tools and toolboxes close by.
A strong, wooden workbench can be built with a saw, a drill, and a tape measure. Overall dimensions can vary to suit your needs, but on an average, workbenches are 48" to 72" long, 32" to 36" height, and 24" to 31" deep.
I built my workbench with 2x4's, then I added a 3/4-inch thick wooden top. It's bolted to the back wall and it's very sturdy.
You can also buy a pre-made wood workbench, but if you do, get a heavy-duty one.
Metal Workbench
This all-steel workbench by Titan features a raised lip around the tabletop to contain loose hardware and parts. A bottom shelf provides additional storage.
Titan's Professional series workbenches are available in red or black, and with or without storage drawers. Specs are 60" width, 31" depth, and 34" height.
Workbench Placement
Most set up their workbench along the back wall, but for garages that are little more than a car-length deep, consider having the workbench and tools along the side wall as an alternative.
If you decide on a side wall, the right side (passenger-side) wall is the better choice (if your car is left hand drive), so as to open the door towards the other wall.
Good Lighting Is Essential
Good lighting reduces eye strain, and is essential to quality work.
I'm fortunate that my present garage has two large windows which give great natural light during the daytime. When working at night, I rely on two twin four-foot fluorescent fixtures.
A single four-foot fluorescent fixture is a good choice to hang above your workbench or mount to the underside of a high shelf.
For automotive bodywork, install enough light fixtures so that you can see everywhere without shadows. Painting the interior walls white will make a big difference in brightness.
********************
Electrical Outlets
Extension cords take up room and can be dangerous, not to mention a tripping hazard. While 110v power outlets every ten feet or so are enough for most garage equipment, air compressors and larger welding machines need a higher electrical output.
Author's Note: I paid a licensed electrician to install a 50 amp 220v circuit for my air compressor.
Garage Compressor
To tackle larger jobs (suspension, chassis, body work), having an air compressor and air tools will save you time and energy.
Read: Choosing An Air Compressor For Home Garage
A compressor needs air flow around it to prevent overheating. Avoid enclosed areas such as underneath workbenches.
Utilize High Ceilings
If your garage happens to have a tall ceiling, consider installing high shelves--even if you need a step-ladder to reach them--use them for things that you don't need to get to often, like old parts or rarely-used tools.
High ceilings can be utilized for an overhead storage rack.
********************
Everything On Wheels
Having shop equipment on wheels (engine stand, roll-around tool boxes, welder, etc) gives you the option of rearranging your workspace for different needs.
With everything on wheels, it's easy to move everything from inside the garage to outside, then start bringing in the biggest items first and putting them in place. Play around with several designs, varying placement of large items that will take up floor space.
********************
Service Cart
These two rolling carts have come in real handy. One is 30" x 16" made of steel, the other one is a 30" x 16" made of polypropylene (plastic).
Both have a top and bottom shelf, and both stand at 32 inches tall.
********************
Small Parts Container
If you didn't have a small parts storage bin, where would your nuts, bolts, screws, and small parts be? That's right, anywhere and everywhere!
An itemized bin for fasteners and small parts saves you time looking for nuts and bolts and other small items.
Mine is an Akro Mills with 24 drawers.
********************
Have A Place To Move Your Project Car
If you block up the garage with your project, you'll have no room for minor maintenance on other vehicles, such as changing oil in your daily driver. If your driveway is large enough to park an extra car on, use it as a staging area for a day or a week.
Have Storage Space Other Than The Garage
A shed is usually the best place to house all yard tools and equipment, but it can also can be used for garage equipment you seldom use (sand blaster, engine hoist, etc.)
********************
Restoring A Car In A Small Garage
Lots of car enthusiasts have restored cars in a one-car garage. What you lack in floor space, you make up for in creativity.
Fun Fact: A small garage is easier to heat or cool than a large one!
Safety First and Always
While working in your garage please be safe. Proper protective equipment includes safety glasses with side shields, foam ear plugs, and gloves. When cutting and grinding metal, wear a face shield.
Conclusion
It's taken me years to set up my garage the way it is today, and it'll likely change in the future. This is due to different projects coming and going, as well as priorities changing.
Take some time and look at the space you have, and all that's in it. By having tools and equipment accessible, you can work easier and faster, and get that old car or truck back on the road sooner.
********************
Related Articles: