This is an equipment checklist for automotive businesses planning fabrication capability — the professional machines and systems, not the procedures that run on them.
THE EXACT EQUIPMENT MIX DEPENDS ON THE AUTOMOTIVE WORK PERFORMED. Collision support, exhaust fabrication, performance work and heavy-duty repair all configure differently.
THE CATEGORIES
WELDING
CUTTING
TUBE / PIPE BENDING
FABRICATION TABLE
FUME EXTRACTION
VEHICLE LIFT
SHOP AIR
SUPPORT EQUIPMENT
NOT A UNIVERSAL PACKAGE — no two fabrication bays need the same list. The vendor conversation turns these categories into an equipment list, and the itemized quotes turn it into a financing project.
HOW FABRICATION PROJECTS ACTUALLY LOOK
Most fabrication builds are partial stacks — a TIG system and table added to an existing performance shop, a bender and welder opening an exhaust service line, a spot welder modernizing a collision bay. Whatever the shape, the categories ride in one application, from one vendor or several.
READ: THE AUTOMOTIVE WELDING EQUIPMENT GUIDEPLANNING A FABRICATION BAY?
Describe the project — one welding system or a complete bay — and the review starts with the equipment you're actually buying.
REQUEST FINANCINGFREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
POPULAR FIXFIN QUESTIONS
Can I finance used automotive equipment?
USED EQUIPMENT GUIDE
Can I finance a complete shop?
COMPLETE SHOP CHECKLIST
What equipment does an auto repair shop need?
COMPLETE SHOP GUIDE
Two-post or four-post lift?
LIFT COMPARISON GUIDE
Can installation and freight be included in financing?
INSTALLATION & FREIGHT GUIDE
Can an auto shop finance commercial HVAC?
SHOP HVAC GUIDE
Can my equipment dealer start the application?
CUSTOMER HANDOFF GUIDE
Can I finance a complete mobile service van?
MOBILE SERVICE GUIDE
Do I need a quote before applying?
QUOTE CHECKLIST