Fay Butler Fab/Metal Shaping ERCO Tools

	Kick Shrinker ERCO Model 1447-6DT foot-operated sheet metal shrinking and stretching machine.		Flanging Machine ERCO Model HD sheet metal forming and flanging machine.		Hand Shrinker-Stretcher

First I would like to say that I consider the ERCO line of great machines, which is entirely built in the USA, the “standard of the world”. My relationship with the TCE Company, makers of the ERCO brand of sheet metal shrinker/stretcher and HD Former/Flanger machine goes back into the 1980s. At that time the TCE Company was looking for someone with direct, real world, hands-on professional experience to guide them with application problems, in redesigning and testing of their machines, and to be the actual person using their machines during demonstrations at aircraft related shows. I was in the unique position to fit those requirements.

From that point on we had a very close relationship. I have re-written the operation and service manuals for all ERCO products. I brought all the information sheets up to date with current alloy designations and tooling selection suggestions. I worked directly with the chief engineer, Al Levesque, who designed the hardened dovetail tooling change method. In my opinion that has been the most significant improvement in this style machine since its first introduction by ERCO in the mid-1930s.

I tested experimental units of the dovetail system along with other components and features to help the manufacturer keep their machines current, more durable and with better performance. When the TCE was looking for more durability for the ERCO jaw life, I tested the first “Di-No-Mite” surface coatings on the dies. I helped with the introduction of the 24” kick shrinker model that Cessna now uses, along with the adjustable depth feature of the powered units.

It was my suggestion to bring back the “Extended Channel shrink” and “Extended Channel stretch” tooling that no one at the factory even knew was in their files. I also developed the three-piece shrink and stretch group of tooling packages to give the user more versatility, allowing for better surface finishes on parts.

I have worked as a direct consultant for the TCE Company for application problems of machine, tooling, and processes. I have gone into many large manufacturing corporations and tier one suppliers for aircraft, airlines, automobiles, boat companies, etc. to consult and train workers directly on the operation and maintenance of the entire ERCO line.  

Together we also developed an economical hand-shrinker/stretcher that will accept all the professional dies using the hardened dovetail changing system.

Dick Barrett is the owner, now for approximately 40 years. If you do deal directly, it might well be that Dick will be talking to me about your request. When you ask me for advice, you are getting as close a relationship to the factory as possible in all areas of the ERCO line. Coupled with my 35 years of professional experience in metal shaping, along with Dick Barrett’s manufacturing knowledge, I like to think you can do no better.

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