Just got myself a dead cheap arc welder to do some basic welding ( no not on the car...lol)
And im after some tips

after trying it for the first time ive realised im shit
main problem being the fookin rod keeps sticking to the damn metal im trying to weld ...why?

also cant seem to get going with a weld , i try to get started on a weld and the rod just keeps getting stuck or not doing anything at all

please tell me the basics so i can get going

 

just a little tip warm the rods up first helps them not to stick ie damp rods will stick a lot easyer than warm ones put the end of the rod on the metal and hold it for a little may be 10 sec that helps

 

Turn up the power to warm up the rod, then turn down in small stages until the arc is not too violent.

Always use a mask, with the correct filter

Make sure you have a good clean earth connection and that the rod end has a clean connection to the holder.

Always use a mask.

Clean the metal with a grinder before welding, just run a weld onto a flat piece first, dont try and join two pieces. Practice on a thick piece not thin sheet. Dont drag the rod too quickly.

When you eventually start to get good welds the slag on top of the weld should fall off very easily in large pieces.

Did I mention using a mask with no cracks in the glass.

 

wot size rods are you tryin to use,

wot metal thickness, and amps?


if have problems with the rod sticking, then try stricking with less force against the metal, and more stricking across it.

as sed above, always clean parent metal up b4 weldin, inc where earth is conected (also put close as pos to where your weldin) and try turnin up the ampage,


it will all come with practise.

 

Where abouts are you bud? i'm Derby and am an appretice trained welder and can show you how to go on!?

PM me if ya like?

 

I fear the D.R.I Will have an arc eye victim tommorow

 

Cheers chaps

some very handy useful tips there , i will give em a try tomorrow

 

see new post ...more tips req'd

 

Gaz.

Ive dome some welding at work, not a pro but i know how to get you goin in the right direction.

Like said before, just strike it accross the metal and dont put too much pressure downwards.

Try bending the welding rod down slightly where it meets the holder i find this helps.

Give us a shout Gaz u know im not far away