Shrinking Discs

A shrinking disc is the fastest way to pull a stretched, oil-canning or over-worked panel back to shape. Spun on an angle grinder, the disc uses friction to put concentrated heat exactly where you need it — quench it and the metal draws back in. It does the job of a torch-and-wet-rag with one tool and a lot more control, which is why it's become a staple for panel beaters, restorers and anyone chasing high spots out of sheet metal.

The two things that decide which disc you want are diameter and the grinder you'll run it on. A 9" disc covers ground quickly on broad, open panels — roofs, doors, quarter panels — and runs on a 9" (7–inch capable) grinder. A 5" disc trades reach for access, getting into edges, body lines and tighter repairs where the big disc can't sit flat, and runs on a standard 5" grinder most shops already own. Plenty of fabricators keep both. Our discs are made in the USA by Cornfield Customs from stainless steel, with a 7/8" spindle bore that fits common backing pads.

A shrinking disc earns its place alongside an English wheel and a shrinker stretcher — the wheel and the shrinker work the edges and contours, the disc knocks down the high spots left in the middle of a panel. Not sure which size fits your work, or want both? Give us a call at (855) 605-4599 and we'll point you the right way.