Posted by Dave on Thursday, May 30, 2002 at 11:17PM :
In Reply to: welding over holes in sheetmetal posted by bill on Thursday, May 30, 2002 at 10:08PM :
A 110V or 220V M.I.G. welder is ideal for this type of work.They are very easy to learn how to use and with a little practice,you will find lots of other jobs to do.I would not recomend flux core wire,it is expensive and requires more cleanup(spatter and slag)than using mixed gas and solid wire.I use an Argon/CO2 mix and while you do pay more for the bottle lease and the gas itself,in the long run,you will enjoy the quality of the work.One of my favorite aids is a thick(1/4in. by 2in.)piece of copper plate to use as a backer for welding up holes.Place it behind the hole,fill the hole in and the weld metal won't stick to the copper.Go to the body shops nearby and see what they use.Also check the welding supply shops,they will advise you on the best products to use.Steer clear of cheap used machines as they were once someone elses headache,you don't want that.Get a good one,you won't regret it.U.S. built machines have parts available almost anywhere.Century Lincoln and Miller are all well supported,with the last two being very good,but a lot more money.Practice on some scrap in both vertical and flat positions, and with different size holes.Good luck Dave