94XjSport94

Rogue4x4

LOL

SatiricalHen

yes so tree killer not baby killer.

XJwonders

why so serious? Lol

SatiricalHen

why not?

XJwonders

contradicts with your username

SatiricalHen

very true

Cane

I hope I can ask this here, I'm looking for some insight;

I have no welding experience and obviously no welding machine. That being said, now that my rocker panels are starting to give in, I want to prepare myself for a little 2x6 rocker replacement project and want to make sure I know what I'm getting into. Instead of paying someone $$$ to do everything, I'm better of paying the same price for all the tools to do it myself. I know practice is key so I'm aware that I'll have to do a lot of that before being able to do a decent job.

-What machine would you suggest getting? I read various comments online suggesting not to bother with 110v machines. I know cheap ones won't cut it so I don't mind paying a good price for something that will last / do the job.

-What should I do to practice? Get 3/16 sheet metal and just weld various shapes/sizes until I feel comfortable trying it on my jeep?

-Any tips, things to watch out for, and/or things to know before attempting to learn to weld?

Thanks!

SatiricalHen

I can tell you for sure I wouldn't use the 110 machine I have for anything like that. I practice on mowers before doing anything "important"

Cane

Yeah that's what I figured. What are the other types (or should I say power input) of machines I should check out? Or any brands I should check out in particular. I'm really at lost when looking for "welding machines" online and in stores.

For example, how is this?
http://www.lincolnelectric.com/en-ca...olnElectric%29

StuckBuck

If you want a machine that can do everything you need for jeep and basic household needs i would look for a machine that's rated for plus or minus around 200amps. That will give you the ability weld as small as sheet metal and up to around half inch plate. These machines will usually be a 220v power source, like a washer machine plug, although some are called dual voltage machines and can use 110 plugs for there smaller output range but still be able to plug into 220 and reach the higher approximately 150+ amperage range for heavier steel. I dont know if you have decided on which welding process you want yet or not but i would suggest GMAW aka "mig" aka "wire feed" for your purposes. I would also suggest you use 75/25 mix for your shielding gas. I would look for machine brands such as miller or lincoln if your willing to spend the coin for a great machine but if you want something a little cheaper i would look at HTP, eastwood, everlast, tweko/thermal arc. Most of those brands still have decent welders but are a little less expensive. look around on Craigslist and see if any deals pop out at you, if not, go to your local welding store and they will help you decide. if you have any more questions go ahead and ask them here, this forum is full of very skilled and knowledgeable welders and fabricators. Good luck

Cane

many thanks for this, a part from the machine itself I have absolutely no knowledge about the gas and different process (only thing I know is there's MIG and TIG welding, and that MIG is what I should look into, but a part from that I'm clueless)

Can you give me an example or two of welding machines you'd consider a good value for the money? I'm ready to spend around 1-1.5k on a decent setup I know will last me years.

Rogue4x4

For that amount get a Miller 211. It's the machine I use at home, will weld up to 3/8" on a single pass. I'm a welder / fabricator by trade, and we use Miller machines exclusively where I work. One of them is over 25 years old, beat to hell, and it keeps up with our newer 252 all day long. Can't go wrong with Miller. Agree on the 75/25 mix. Also look into taking a local community college course. You'll learn alot. Also start reading on Google and watching you tube vids. And, when you get a welder, practice practice practice. In all different positions and joint types. Once you've become comfortable with it, start in on some projects!

XJwonders

I agree, I have a millermatic 211. I love it.

Cane

Perfect, I've already started reading a bunch of stuff, but local classes is a good idea, having a teacher would be good for this. I'll look into it. Thanks again guys