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Well... my welder took a crap on me today. Got just enough done to mount it up, but still have some more to go... just can't complete it all until the new welder is ready to go.
Upgrading to a Lincoln 140, but its gonna be a while before I have the funds... so calling this complete... for now.
First of all, that looks really good. I was a little worried about the lip on the sides at first, but with it all put together I like it better. And I think you made a good call with the corners.
Second, this is all very encouraging for me. I have a small flux core welder from Northern Tools and have been practicing for about a year now. I've always thought there is no way I could fab something as big as a bumper (so far just floor pan fixes and a little quarter panel rust). I also don't have anyone around me to compare my welds with and all I ever see on here are really good pretty welds. I thought I would need to take a class and get a better welder before moving on to bigger things. My welds these days look a lot like what you've been showing and like you said, they aren't the prettiest, but they do hold. I'm sure that once I get my hands on a decent bit of steel I'll be looking into fabbing up something of my own!
Nice work on the bumper, it's hard to make things from scratch. Metal really likes to be clean when it's welded and that gives people a lot of trouble. There is nothing like a fresh sheet of cold roll or HRPO (hot rolled and pickled in oil) when fabricating a big project. I used to think steel was expensive until I added up the labor time trying to recover metal lost to time.
Nice work on the bumper, it's hard to make things from scratch. Metal really likes to be clean when it's welded and that gives people a lot of trouble. There is nothing like a fresh sheet of cold roll or HRPO (hot rolled and pickled in oil) when fabricating a big project. I used to think steel was expensive until I added up the labor time trying to recover metal lost to time.
Thanks. After having it on the Jeep for a month now, I'm already planning some changes to it. Its to wide on the ends, so going to cut the sides down a couple of inches. Just sold one of my other vehicles that I don't drive anymore, so have the funds for the new welder. Think I've decided on the Hobart Handler 140 instead of the Lincoln, but whatever I get, I can't wait to get back to this bumper and finish it up before the snow really starts flying and it gets to cold for it to be fun.
I would agree with the sides being too wide. But remember, the more cuts/welds you have, the more places your bumper can break if you hit something.
You are correct, but I would still wind up with the same number of welds as I have on there now.
Just picked up the new welder this past weekend, so looking forward to working on this a little more in the coming weeks.
For those of you thinking about small 115volt welder, I can't say enough positive things about this Hobart Handler 140. I can't wait to put it to some real use.
Here's a quick video I did of when I first got it. It is like night and day difference to what I was using. Now I just need to invest in some gas and maybe even take a class to learn how to really use it correctly.
I am petty impressed with your work also. (Subbing) kind of interested to see how you are going to change it. I kind of like that you have it wide enough that if a person wanted to do a exo-cage it would work well. Are you going to shave it so that you have a better approach angle? Kind of like my Logan bumper.
I am petty impressed with your work also. (Subbing) kind of interested to see how you are going to change it. I kind of like that you have it wide enough that if a person wanted to do a exo-cage it would work well. Are you going to shave it so that you have a better approach angle? Kind of like my Logan bumper.
Damn.... I never even considered an exo-cage.... I love the look of those. Now you've got me planning new projects... Uggg... my wife is gonna kill me. "No really, Honey.... this is the last thing I want to build for the the Jeep (for now)... I won't spend another dime on it (its gonna cost way more than a dime)... I really will start fixing your Jeep just as soon as I'm done with mine (another couple/three years maybe)"
You can't own a jeep and not put money into cool stuff mods. Build some tube fenders off that bumper and tie that into an exo. That would be sweet
You can own a Jeep with out putting money into it, but what fun would that be. I am pretty lucky with my wife. She understands that her man need a good hobby to keep him going. The problem has been going thru so many expensive hobbies. (Mountain bike, wood working, golf, and now 4 wheeling) so even though I have their blessing, I have to be carful with every $ I spend.
I was just saying that his bumper really doesn't stick out to far on the side, but it would be nice if the bottom could be made better for approach angles. and of course leaving your options open.
Just picked up the new welder this past weekend, so looking forward to working on this a little more in the coming weeks.
For those of you thinking about small 115volt welder, I can't say enough positive things about this Hobart Handler 140. I can't wait to put it to some real use.
Here's a quick video I did of when I first got it. It is like night and day difference to what I was using. Now I just need to invest in some gas and maybe even take a class to learn how to really use it correctly
The Handler 140 is a GREAT machine. There isn't a whole lot that a skilled welder cannot accomplish with one. I run mine with straight CO2 and .030" ER70S-6 wire for most general fab and have zero complaints. I don't see the need for a bigger MIG, as I bust out with the old Lincoln 225/125 if I'm going over ¼" or where I need the penetration.
One thing I do highly advocate though is the disposal of the factory ground clamp. The OEM stamped clamps are better suited for keeping the Fritos fresh than they are for a ground. Get a good copper alloy clamp and be amazed at the difference it makes. I personally put a 200 amp Tweco style clamp on mine and am very happy with the results.
09-27-2015, 06:42 PM
