Baileigh MSS-16 Manual Sheet Metal Shrinker Stretcher
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Baileigh MSS-16 Shrinker/Stretcher
The Baileigh MSS-16 is a professional-grade manual shrinker stretcher that brings serious metal shaping capability to your workshop. With an impressive 8-inch (203mm) throat depth and 16-gauge mild steel capacity, this machine gives you the reach and power you need to create perfect curves, contours, and custom shapes in sheet metal—whether you're restoring a classic car, fabricating aircraft panels, or crafting custom metalwork.
If you've ever struggled with a shrinker stretcher that just can't reach deep enough into your panels, you'll immediately appreciate what makes the MSS-16 special. Most machines in this category offer limited throat depth, forcing you to work around the edges or settle for compromises. Not with this one. The MSS-16's generous 8-inch throat depth means you can get right into the middle of large panels, giving you the freedom to create the exact shapes you envision.
Built on a heavy-duty cast iron frame, this isn't a tool that'll let you down when you're working with thicker materials. It's designed for real-world fabrication work, where reliability matters as much as capability. The manual hand lever operation gives you precise control over every shrink and stretch, so you can shape metal exactly how you want it. Whether you're forming gentle curves for a fender or creating tight contours for aircraft skin, you'll have the control you need to get professional results.
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Applications
- Automotive Restoration & Custom Fabrication: Shape fenders, hoods, door panels, and body patches with professional-quality curves and contours
- Aircraft & Aerospace Panel Forming: Create precise compound curves in aluminum aircraft skin and structural panels
- Metal Roofing & Architectural Metalwork: Form custom flashing, valleys, and decorative metal elements for buildings
- Custom Motorcycle Fabrication: Craft gas tanks, fenders, and custom bodywork with smooth, flowing lines
- HVAC Ductwork & Sheet Metal Fabrication: Form transitions, elbows, and custom fittings that require shaping beyond straight cuts
- Art & Sculpture: Create three-dimensional metal artwork and sculptural pieces with organic, flowing shapes
Key Features & Benefits
- Industry-Leading 8" (203mm) Throat Depth: Get deep into the center of your panels where other machines can't reach, eliminating the frustration of edge-only access and opening up new creative possibilities
- Heavy-Duty Cast Iron Frame Construction: This isn't a lightweight tool that'll flex under pressure. The robust cast iron frame stays solid when you're working with thick materials, giving you consistent results every time
- Handles 16-Gauge Mild Steel & 14-Gauge Aluminum: Work with the materials you use most without pushing the machine beyond its limits. Whether you're forming steel body panels or aluminum aircraft skin, you've got the capacity you need
- Quick-Change Dual Jaw System: Stop wasting time with complicated tooling changes. Just lift out one set of jaws and drop in the other—you'll be back to work in seconds, not minutes
- Precision Hand Lever Control: Feel exactly what's happening with your material. The manual lever gives you the tactile feedback and fine control that lets you shape metal with confidence
- Flexible Mounting Options: Start with benchtop mounting to save space, then upgrade to the optional foot pedal stand when your work demands it. Your shop, your choice
- Recessed Design for Complex Shapes: The deep-set jaw design means you can work with curved or uneven metal pieces, not just flat sheets. Shape real-world parts, not just test pieces
- 1-Year Parts Warranty & Lifetime Technical Support: Baileigh backs this machine with genuine support from metalworking professionals who understand your work. When you have questions, you'll talk to people who've actually used these tools
What's in the Box
- MSS-16 Shrinker Stretcher Machine Body (cast iron construction)
- One Set of Shrinker Jaws (for creating curves and reducing material)
- One Set of Stretcher Jaws (for expanding and stretching material)
- Operating Handle/Lever Assembly
- Mounting Hardware
- Owner's Manual & Setup Guide
- 1-Year Parts Warranty Card
- Lifetime Technical Support Access
Baileigh MSS-16 Specifications
| Item Number | MSS-16 |
|---|---|
| Mild Steel Capacity | 16 gauge (1.3mm) |
| Aluminum Capacity | 14 gauge (2mm) |
| Throat Depth | 203mm (8 inches) |
| Operation Type | Manual hand lever |
Baileigh MSS-16 Manuals & Downloads
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use this machine for aluminum aircraft work?
Yes, the MSS-16 handles up to 14-gauge aluminum. However, the square corner jaws may leave small indents in soft materials. For extensive aluminum work, consider the MSS-16F model with rounded jaws, or purchase optional aluminum-specific jaw sets that minimize marking.
Do I need the foot pedal stand, or can I work effectively with the hand lever?
The hand lever works perfectly well for most applications. The optional foot pedal stand is beneficial when you need both hands free to support and guide large panels, which is common in automotive and aircraft work. Many users start with benchtop mounting and add the stand later if needed.
How difficult is it to switch between shrinking and stretching?
It's remarkably simple—just lift the jaws straight up and out of the holder, then drop in the other set. The whole process takes about 30 seconds. No tools required, no complicated adjustments.
Will this machine handle thicker materials than 16gauge steel?
The MSS-16 is rated for 16-gauge mild steel maximum. While you might occasionally get away with slightly thicker material on small sections, consistently working beyond the rated capacity will damage the jaws and frame. If you regularly work with 14-gauge or thicker, consider upgrading to the MSS-14F or MSS-14H models.
What's the difference between the MSS16 and MSS16F?
The MSS-16 (this model) has an 8-inch throat depth with square corner jaws and requires a separate optional stand for foot pedal operation. The MSS-16F has a 6-inch throat depth with rounded jaws (to minimize marking) and includes a foot pedal stand. Choose the MSS-16 if you need maximum reach and don't mind finishing out small jaw marks.