Welding Tips for First Time Welder

[Denio24]

Well the time has come for me to buy my own welder. Things are slow in my regular job so I have about a 5 days of free time to start fixing my suspension. I will be removing the subframe in the coming days and I have to weld exactly where the folded over crimp joint sits on the perimeter of frame in 2" by 2" lines. I have decided that instead of taking the front subframe to a shop to be blasted, welded, & powdercoated for about $250, that It would be more convenient to invest in a good mig welder to tackle other welding projects as well. I am not really concerned with perfect welds - (I will probably not be welding intricately, so the welder doesn't necessarily have to be a TIG - but who knows). However, I am concerned with clean-up time - I have seen the differences from using just flux core and actual shielding gas like 100% co2 or mixed 70/30 for carbon steel. If I could purchase a welder and a tank + gas + regulators for sub $500 that would be great. Also, I have no idea what thickness wire to use for the subframe and as far as welder settings go I have no idea as well. I have 230V at my disposal.

[aluthman]

http://www.usaweld.com/MIG-130-Weldi...ge-p/60130.htm
https://www.amazon.com/Hobart-500559.../dp/B009X43F38

Good welders can be had for <$500, but you probably won't find a complete setup for that unless you buy used.

[atvhead]

I run a flux core capable little mig welder, lincoln 140 I believe it is, had it for years. Runs on 110v. You dont necessarily need "big" wire to weld something substantial, what you need is voltage (translates in heat) and penetration. Usually accomplished with weld preps such as bevels, chamfers, etc.

I am not saying a lincoln 140 would necessarily be a great fit for the areas on the subframe you need to weld, but keep in mind you can accomplish very good welding with proper cleaning, weld preping, and preheating if necessary, with a little welder in the less than 500 range. I did quite a bit of rear frame repair and new shock mounts on my 2500HD silverado with my mig welder. Worked like a champ. If i could change anything, i would get one to run on 230 or one that can run both 110/230.

Hope this helps

[Denio24]

I will probably go for the hobart - I can also pick up a 75/25 40cf bottle for $135 from a local supply company. I see that you say that the wire is not as important on the subframe as is the heat setting. How would I know what kind of voltage setting for the subframe. Is it mild steel? Any idea what gauge? I want a good reliable repair...hence the questions.

[atvhead]

you would either need to test the settings on some scrap pieces first or do a quick spot weld and that can tell you if you have too much heat (burn through) or not enough heat (bad balling up of the weld filler) A lot of welders come with basic setting charts now-a-days if you have some idea of the thickness of what you are welding. i am not usually the one specifcying how to do the welding - i am the guy that tells them where to weld, weld size, how much etc. so i am not sure about your gas mix. not fully knowing what the base metal is wouldnt it be better to just use 100% argon? i could be wrong here - i am sure the weld supply place you are getting the gas from would know better.

Sorry - i dont know the thickness or exact material of the subframe

[Denio24]

it is in most cases always better to go with 100% argon i guess, but co2 mix allows for better penetration. I will probably go 75 25 argon co2. Now for the thickness, I'm pretty sure it's between 13 & 14 gauge. Adam does 14 gauge sound about right?

[aluthman]

I think 75% Argon and 25% CO2 mix is pretty standard for MIG. I use 100% argon all the time for my TIG but I don't think I've seen it used for MIG before.

[Denio24]

Just bought a hobart handler 140 @ northern tool and a 55 cf tank 75 Ar 25 CO2, a cart, and spool wire from my local welding supply. Total cost: $600. Gonna lay some practice beads then strip the old subframe paint. Any ideas on how i should strip? I'm thinking just a good old grinder w/ flap disc attachment.

[atvhead]

i often use just what you said - like a tiger paw sanding pad on an angle grinder

invest in a auto darkening welding helmet and gloves. This is not optional - its a necessity!