Ordered Metal Rods To Modify A Guinea Pig Cage Into A Hamster Cage
[ Monday February 26th 2024 at 2:43 pm ]
I have purchased 3 guinea pig cages. My plan is to modify them into hamster cages. For the guinea pig cage to become a hamster cage it needs it needs a bar every ½". This will draw out my future hamster's natural desire to climb. Also this will prevent my hamster from escaping. I just took my next solid step to make my vision a reality. I have ordered a supply of ⅛" metal bars to modify cage #1 and the bottom floor of cage #2.
The steps for modifying each cage aren't too technical:
- Sandblast off the paint applied at the time of manufacturing
- Measure, Mark, Cut And Weld A Rod Every ½"
- Clean the rods to remove any oil residue from their manufacturing process
- Apply pet safe paint
- Allow the paint to cure for 10 days
- Thoroughly wash the cage to remove any remaining solvents from the spray painting process.
As I go through the process of modifying cage #1 I will be creating tools to make this work for me. There are two tools I am creating for this project before I am able to modify the first cage.
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Modify a leaf blower to become a sand blaster:
The cost of a traditional sandblaster and suitable compressor would be approximately $300. There are numerous examples on youTube for how to create a sandblaster. This process involves adding a container to hold the blasting media and narrowing the hose so the blasting media is focused and will be effective at removing paint. This doesn't protect the motor from the blasting media. Considering that I was able to find a leaf blower for $35 dollars this is worth it to me. -
Setup an Arduino project to provide the function of a timer circuit
The spot welder I purchased is a 220 volt AC model. Considering the application this is a very powerful unit. I will be spot welding pieces of mild steel rod. The purpose of using a timing circuit is so I won't turn the metal rods into a liquid and cause a hole in the cage.
The bulk of this project is repetition. It isn't technical. I find using my hands to be very rewarding. I get a lot of satisfaction. This helps me co-exist with my physical disability. At the end of this project I will have a Hamster Village. I can't wait to dig into this and share regular updates. I am looking forward to welcoming the hamsters into my home.