Baileigh MSS-18 Sheet Metal Shrinker Stretcher
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Baileigh MSS-18 Shrinker/Stretcher
The Baileigh MSS-18 is your perfect entry-level sheet metal shrinker stretcher that combines professional-grade performance with hands-free operation. With its innovative 2-headed design and included foot pedal stand, you'll shape metal panels faster and more efficiently than ever before.
Are you tired of constantly switching between tools when shaping metal? The MSS-18 solves that frustration with a brilliant 2-in-1 design. You get a complete shrinker AND a complete stretcher, each in its own cast iron housing, so you never have to waste time changing jaws between operations.
What makes the MSS-18 stand out from the competition? Unlike most entry-level shrinker stretchers, this machine comes complete with a sturdy floor stand and foot pedal control. This means both your hands stay free to guide and position your material precisely where you need it. No more awkward hand-lever operation that leaves you struggling to hold the workpiece steady.
Built with heavy cast iron construction, this isn't some lightweight tool that'll wobble under pressure. The MSS-18 handles 18-gauge mild steel and 16-gauge aluminum at full capacity, year after year. Whether you're restoring classic cars, fabricating custom panels for aircraft, or running a busy metal shop, this shrinker stretcher gives you the reliability and performance you need without breaking the bank. The 38mm throat depth lets you work comfortably on panel edges, giving you the reach you need for most automotive and fabrication projects.
Product Video
Applications
- Automotive Restoration and Customization: Shape fenders, hoods, door panels, and trunk lids for classic car restorations or custom builds
- Aircraft Sheet Metal Work: Form curved panels and contoured surfaces for aircraft fabrication and repair projects
- General Fabrication Shops: Create custom metal enclosures, architectural elements, and decorative metalwork
- Motorcycle and Specialty Vehicle Building: Craft custom gas tanks, side panels, and fairings with precise curves
- Ductwork and Metal Roofing: Shape transitions, elbows, and curved sections for professional installations
- Metal Art and Sculpture: Form flowing organic shapes and compound curves for artistic metalwork projects
Key Features & Benefits
- 2-Headed Design Saves You Time: Both shrinker and stretcher units are permanently mounted in separate housings. Switch between shrinking and stretching instantly without any tool changes—just move your material to the other head and keep working.
- Included Stand with Foot Pedal Control: Your hands stay completely free to position and guide the material. The comfortable working height reduces fatigue and gives you better leverage for precise control over every bend.
- Heavy Cast Iron Construction: Built to last for decades of professional use. The robust casting absorbs vibration and maintains accuracy even when working at full capacity day after day.
- Ready to Work Out of the Box: Arrives fully assembled with both shrinker and stretcher jaws already installed. No complicated setup—just unpack, place it in your shop, and start forming metal.
- 38mm Throat Depth: Provides enough reach to work on panel edges and get into areas where you need forming without having to disassemble your project.
- 18-Gauge Mild Steel Capacity: Handles the most common gauges used in automotive and fabrication work. Also works with 16-gauge aluminum for lighter-weight applications.
- Backed by Professional Support: Comes with a 1-year parts warranty and lifetime technical phone support from Baileigh's team of experienced metalworkers. Replacement jaws and parts are kept in stock for quick shipping when you need them.
- Adjustable and Reliable: The foot pedal operation is smooth and responsive, giving you precise control over the forming pressure for clean, professional results.
What's in the Box
- MSS-18 Main Unit (Dual-Head Assembly)
- Complete Shrinker Jaw Assembly (pre-installed)
- Complete Stretcher Jaw Assembly (pre-installed)
- Heavy-Duty Floor Stand with Integrated Foot Pedal
- Foot Pedal Mechanism and Hardware
- All Mounting Hardware and Fasteners
- Owner's Manual and Technical Documentation
Baileigh MSS-18 Specifications
| Model Number | MSS-18 |
|---|---|
| Mild Steel Capacity | 18 gauge (1.3mm) |
| Aluminum Capacity | 16 gauge (1.6mm) |
| Throat Depth | 38mm (1.5") |
| Operation Type | Manual with Foot Pedal Control |
Baileigh MSS-18 Manuals & Downloads
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to buy a stand separately?
No! Unlike most competitors, the MSS-18 includes a heavy-duty floor stand with integrated foot pedal control at no extra cost. You get everything you need in one package.
Will the square corner jaws leave marks on my material?
The square corner jaws may leave small indents that require light smoothing or finishing. If you need mark-free forming, consider the MSS-16F model which features rounded jaws designed to minimize surface marking.
Can I work on thicker material than 18gauge?
The MSS-18 is rated for 18-gauge mild steel and 16-gauge aluminum at full capacity. While you might be able to form slightly heavier gauges with reduced bite depth, attempting to exceed the rated capacity can damage the jaws and reduce the tool's lifespan. For heavier work, consider the MSS-14F or MSS-14H models.
Is the throat depth enough for automotive panels?
The 38mm (1.5") throat depth is perfect for most automotive panel edge work, including fenders, door skins, and hood panels. For deeper reaches into large panels, you might want to look at the MSS-18DT which offers 2.5" throat depth, or the MSS-16F with 152mm (6") throat depth.
How do I maintain the MSS18?
Keep the jaws clean and lightly oiled to prevent rust. Periodically check that all fasteners remain tight, especially on the foot pedal mechanism. The cast iron construction is very durable and requires minimal maintenance. Replacement jaws are available when needed, and Baileigh keeps them in stock for quick shipping.
What's the difference between the MSS18 and other Baileigh shrinker stretchers?
The MSS-18 is the entry-level model with standard throat depth and square corner jaws. The MSS-16F offers deeper throat (6") and rounded jaws for mark-free forming. The MSS-14F and MSS-14H provide heavier capacity (14-gauge) with the 14H featuring hydraulic/pneumatic operation for even thicker materials.