I have had folks ask what we use for these builds. I would post this in tool time, but it seems people don't bother to look in there...
I have a 1/2 inch steel plate which is the base. Having one of these is priceless for me. You can get a good plate, 1/4 inch will do at Lowe's in the "Metal by the piece" section or go to a local welder/auto body shop.
I use a torch for most everything. I have a cheap 30 watt iron for smaller work.
Little clamps like above are worth their weight in gold. They are inexpensive and get the job done. I show a cut off saw and Harbor Freight carried them. I use a Dremel for most quick suts, but it comes in handy for more precise work.
The cutting mat is also a great tool. You can get these anywhere, even in the sewing section at Wal-Mart. Just duck in there fast, get a mat and get out before you are seen.
The little toy vise and small hammer are all I need to "convince" most brass to go where I want.
Coffee cup full of assorted sizes. Only way to do it is just buy it and build a small selection. SCC setup block to check the work. I have a fancy plinth Rob made me too, I use that at trackside.
I am NO EXPERT at chassis building and my work proves that. Just sharing a few items that we use here to get the job done.