Baileigh BR-18M-24 Manual Bead Roller 24"
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Baileigh BR-18M-24 Bead Roller
The Baileigh BR-18M-24 is a heavy duty manual bead roller designed to strengthen and shape sheet metal with precision. Whether you're restoring classic cars, fabricating custom panels, or creating intricate metal designs, this versatile machine delivers professional results without the need for electricity.
Are you tired of flimsy sheet metal that warps and bends? The BR-18M-24 solves this problem by creating raised beads and ribs that dramatically increase structural rigidity. Built on Baileigh's proven BR-18E-24 electric model platform, this manual version gives you complete control through hand crank operation while maintaining the same rugged construction and precision engineering.
With its impressive 610mm throat depth, you can easily reach the center of large panels—perfect for working on 4' x 8' sheets or creating beads in truck beds, hoods, and roof panels. Yet despite its generous reach, the compact design still allows you to craft the most delicate and intricate beading patterns. This is the ideal machine for automotive enthusiasts, metal fabricators, and restoration shops who want professional quality results without breaking the bank.
The electro welded heavy steel framework means this machine won't flex during operation, ensuring every bead is perfectly straight and consistent. All moving parts ride on long-lasting bronze bushings with grease fittings, so maintenance is simple and the machine will serve you reliably for decades. And with the standard 19mm shaft diameter, you'll have access to a huge selection of commercially available roll sets to expand your creative possibilities.
Applications
- Automotive Restoration Projects: Create original-style strengthening beads in hoods, deck lids, trunk floors, roof panels, floor pans, and inner fenders
- Custom Panel Fabrication: Add structural rigidity to replacement panels, firewalls, and custom body parts
- Decorative Metalwork: Design unique patterns and artistic elements in door panels, dashboards, and show car components
- Truck Bed Reinforcement: Form perfectly straight cargo panel beads with repeatable accuracy
- Ductwork: Strengthen sheet metal ducts and ventilation components
- Industrial Sheet Metal: Stiffen large panels for machinery guards, enclosures, and protective covers
Key Features & Benefits
- Generous 610mm Throat Depth: Reach deep into panels without awkward repositioning—easily work on full-size automotive panels and 4' x 8' sheets while maintaining precision on smaller, intricate work
- Hand Crank Manual Operation: You're in complete control of the speed and pressure, perfect for delicate work and learning the craft. No electricity needed means you can work anywhere
- Industrial-Grade Construction: Heavy electro-welded steel framework resists flexing and ensures accurate, consistent beads throughout the machine's lifetime—built to professional shop standards
- Adjustable Depth Stop Included: Create perfectly straight, repeatable beads every time. Simply set the depth stop and you'll achieve consistent results across multiple panels
- Universal Roll Compatibility: The standard 19mm shaft diameter accepts most commercially available roll sets, giving you endless creative options and the freedom to choose from multiple tooling suppliers
- Long Lasting Bronze Bushings: All moving parts ride on quality bronze bushings with convenient grease fittings—minimal maintenance required for years of smooth operation
- Complete Floor Stand System: The heavy-duty stand keeps your workspace organized with an integrated die rack that stores up to 10 roll sets, so your most-used tooling is always within reach
- Professional Capacity: Handles 18-gauge mild steel and 16-gauge aluminum (1.2mm mild steel), covering the vast majority of automotive and fabrication applications
What's in the Box
- BR-18M-24 Manual Bead Roller (fully assembled)
- Heavy duty floor stand with integrated die rack (capacity: 10 roll sets)
- Adjustable depth stop
- 1-1/4" Spoiler roll set (installed and ready to use)
- Grease fittings for maintenance
- Operator's manual with safety instructions and setup guidelines
- 1-Year parts warranty card
- Lifetime technical support information
Baileigh BR-18M-24 Specifications
| Model Number | BR-18M-24 |
|---|---|
| Throat Depth | 610mm (24 inches) |
| Maximum Capacity - Mild Steel | 18 gauge (1.2mm) |
| Maximum Capacity - Aluminum | 16 gauge |
| Operation Type | Manual (hand-crank) |
| Shaft Diameter | 19mm (3/4 inch) |
Baileigh BR-18M-24 Manuals & Downloads
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between this manual BR18M24 and the electric BR18E24?
The BR-18M-24 is manually operated via hand crank, giving you precise control and eliminating the need for electricity. It's perfect for hobbyists, learning the craft, or situations where power isn't readily available. The electric BR-18E-24 offers motorized operation with a foot pedal and slightly higher capacity (16-gauge vs 18-gauge mild steel). If you're doing high-volume production work, the electric model might be worth considering. But for most restoration and custom work, this manual version offers excellent value and all the capability you need.
Will my existing roll sets from other brands fit this machine?
Yes! The BR-18M-24 uses a standard 19mm (3/4") shaft diameter that's compatible with most commercially available roll sets, including many Mittler Brothers dies and other major brands. This gives you tremendous flexibility in expanding your tooling collection without being locked into a single manufacturer.
Is this machine suitable for beginners, or do I need professional experience?
This is an excellent machine for beginners! The manual operation gives you complete control over speed and pressure, making it easier to learn proper technique. The included depth stop helps you achieve consistent results right away. Many first-time users successfully create professional-quality beads after minimal practice. Plus, Baileigh backs every machine with lifetime technical support, so expert help is just a phone call away if you have questions.
How difficult is maintenance and how often do I need to service it?
Maintenance is remarkably simple. The bronze bushings have grease fittings—just apply grease periodically according to your usage (after heavy projects or monthly for regular use). Keep the rollers clean and free of metal shavings. That's essentially it! The robust construction and quality components mean this machine requires minimal attention while delivering decades of reliable service.
Can I use this for stainless steel or other specialty metals?
The BR-18M-24 is rated for 18-gauge mild steel and 16-gauge aluminum. While it can handle some softer stainless steels at lighter gauges, it's not specifically designed for stainless steel work. For specialty materials, Baileigh offers nylon roll sets that can help with certain applications. If you're primarily working with stainless steel, contact Baileigh's technical support to discuss whether this model meets your specific needs or if a different machine would be better suited.