I started working on my cage last week. After checking with the SCCA on the legality of my main hoop I'm going to get some more work done this weekend before the ice storm. Pictures of my plans, tubing bender/notcher setup and main hoop work can be found at the bottom of the page at this link:

EP Cage Build

Interesting stuff, especially how the pipe measurements change when you make a bend. Keep the updates and the pictures coming!

Looks like your into the real fun part there Rick!!!

Sorry I have not been around lately -- I have been busy with my house. Hopefully I will get back on my car this summer so I can attend the requisite schools.

What made you go EP vs. GT?

Dan, good to see you posting again!!!

I always thought those benders crushed the tube. I guess not. Is that like the Harbor Freight bender?

No, this bender is of the $500 variety that makes smooth bends with no distortion of the wall. The tubing is drawn around the die through a mandrel block, not simply pressed like the HF hydaulic benders.

Is that like this one here http://www.trick-tools.com/model_3_bender.htm ? It is hard to see the detail in your pics.

I think that's the same type as Rick has.

Here's one that I like, at least for the price.... It also would take up less space in the shop and the price is about in line with the rest of them. They routinely list them on Ebay for about 100 bucks less than what is posted on the web-site too...

http://www.toolsplus1.com/eztube.htm

Yes. It is pretty much like the manual bender on the page you linked in. I have three sets of dies. I can do 1", 1.5" and 1.75" tubing. Takes a while to get used to the measurements and where to start bending from. My first attempt several years ago took three tries to get a good main hoop. I would love to get the degree wheel option and the hydraulic drive.