Need advice on learning to weld

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Sep 25, 2002 | 01:26 PM

Tex71BB

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Burning Brakes

Joined: Aug 2000

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From: Monument Colorado

Need advice on learning to weld

I want to learn to weld. What kind of rig should I get to learn on? Right now, I'm leaning toward gas-less MIG (cheaper than a gas rig for starting out), but I don't even know what types are used for different jobs. For what type of welding would you use a Arc or torch? Would either of those be a better choice to learn on? Thanks.

Sep 25, 2002 | 01:30 PM

97Z

Instructor

Joined: Oct 2001

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From: Stronghurst Il

Re: Need advice on learning to weld (Tex71BB)

Mig, with gas. the gas will keep the welds clean so you will be able to see what your doing better. I'm still learning myself, My dad has been a union Steamfitter since he graduated high school, and hes teaching me how to weld so I don't have to hire someone to do it for me. It's really not that hard once you get the basics down. Mike :cheers:

Sep 25, 2002 | 01:32 PM

BB wowbagger

Melting Slicks

Joined: Feb 2002

Posts: 2,298

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From: Sodertalje/Sweden

Re: Need advice on learning to weld (Tex71BB)

I use torch,MiG and normal eletric(With a "stick")

I would start by getting a Mig with gas.It may cost a few bucks more but its worth it.
then its just to start testing on diffrent sheets of metall.Diffrent thickness,diffrent angles of approch and such.The local library could have some books on welding. :cheers:

Sep 25, 2002 | 02:46 PM

Tex71BB

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Burning Brakes

Joined: Aug 2000

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From: Monument Colorado

Re: Need advice on learning to weld (BB wowbagger)

OK - 2 votes for gas MIG. What I have read indicates that the gasless MIG uses a special wire that chemically produces its own gas. What is the advantage of a gas rig?

Sep 25, 2002 | 02:52 PM

Robert8096

Instructor

Joined: Jan 2002

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From: Goose Creek SC

Re: Need advice on learning to weld (Tex71BB)

I have the gasless Mig. Take it from me spend the money and get the one with gas. Also get one with an adjustable power range.

Sep 25, 2002 | 03:23 PM

79 Midnight Blue L82

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Re: Need advice on learning to weld (Tex71BB)

I have both an Arc welder and a mig with gas. The arc is pretty much for heavier stuff than you will be welding in an automotive application. My mig is only a 115 volt unit for very light welding. I really like it, but, I would not recommend it for your only welder as it is not heavy enough to weld something you are really going to depend on like a frame repair. It is more for body (not on a Vette :bb ) welding and pipe welding. Get yourself a good Mig with gas in something like the 185 - 200 amp range and you will have an excellent welder. These welders are 220 volt so be sure you have a 220 hookup to use. HTP Welding out of Chicago has some excellent Mig welders at good prices. They are primarily a mail order welding supply place. Not sure of their web page, but, you should be able to search the Net and find it.

Sep 25, 2002 | 04:20 PM

Indy Year 25

Racer

Joined: Apr 2002

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From: Lafayette, Indiana

Re: Need advice on learning to weld (79 Midnight Blue L82)

Harold, welcome! Good to see more people from the area getting on the forum.

Sep 25, 2002 | 04:43 PM

killain

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From: SE Pennsylvania

St. Jude Donor '03 thru '26

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Re: Need advice on learning to weld (Tex71BB)

Mig welding is the most common and will work the best with didrty base metal. Stick welding is more heavy duty and will give a broader weldment and Oxy/Acel is the most skill driven type along with Heli/arch or tig welding which is most often used with aluminum or speciality metals. Mig will do most anything you want automotive wise. However always remember the cleaner the base metal, the better you weldment, the welded area itself. I've work in and around all types of welding from shipyards to welding fire engine equipment? It's a good skill to learn. And be patient, it takes a while to get the hang of it.