So, the muffler shop wants to charge me $400 to weld on angle iron frame strengtherers. For that much I could buy an electric welder from Harbor Freight and do it my self right? I have no welding experience. Can someone give me some advice?
http://www.hdoffroadengineering.com/...ame-stiffeners


Much oblidged,

Jason

 

You should try to pick up a used Hobart Handler 140, you will be much better off with that machine vs HF.

The Hobarts are made by Miller and have Miller components.

 

$400 is a lot to charge for that. I agree with Dirtbound get a better welder, IMO that HF welder sucks.

Look into the Hobart or a Lincoln, there both fairly cheap and good.

If you do get a welder and do it yourself just clean the area that you will be welding really good with a wire wheel or something. Then is not a bad idea to wipe it down with some Acetone or something just to make sure there is no oil or other crud still on it. Prepping the area you are welding will make a world of difference when you are welding.

 

I sanded it all down with an angle grinder and sanding pad, and a drill with a sanding pad, and rotary wire brush. I also sprayed it with Bloxide weldable primer.
http://www.eastwood.com/bloxide-weld...-aerosols.html

 

Sounds like you are onto a good start here is a link that may help with welding.
http://www.millerwelds.com/resources...or-Mild-Steel/

 

Just like body work, prep is everything.

 

just so you know, get the biggest welder you can afford. you want the strongest welds possible so a 220v welder would be ideal...otherwise the little 140's will have to work in short bursts

 

mb jhm

 

practice on some spare pieces before you get into the real deal. Welding isn't difficult but there is definitely technique to it that only trial and error (and some experienced help on hand) can provide.

You gotta know how to set the feed and voltage and then have a steady hand to lay the arc down and then be able to know if it's got good penetration or if it's too oxidized or too hot and is putting holes where welds are supposed to go...

I'm not a pro but I've successfully welded a few exhaust systems, made a go-cart from scratch one summer, and welded steel framing for my college's theatre sets for class credit. I wish I still had a welder available to me... I'll be for sure buying one too as soon as my funds get right.