Posted by Mark Davis on Thursday, December 27, 2001 at 11:46PM :
In Reply to: Thanks for the Great Ideas! posted by EdC on Thursday, December 27, 2001 at 12:42PM :
Ed,
I agree with Dave Speed in that using larger wood than 2X4's or 4X4's. On edge, the wider the beam the stronger it is and it has less flex. Nailing 2 beams together is stronger than a solo beam. The wood is regular house framing material.
If using wood clamps or other large clamps, make sure all the pressure is on the same horizontal line. That means the center point of the wood on both sides of the rail is on the same horizontal plane and the clamp heads are on the center of the wood.
If you send me your address, I will draw up what I am talking about and mail it to you.
The clamps that you are looking for are over sized C clamps that have adjustable length called BAR clamps or quick action clamps.
One of the best in the woodworking industry is Wetzler Clamp Company, Division of Treacy Industries at 1(800) 451-1852.
www.wetzler.com
Hope this helps.
Mark