Do I have the right kit to weld my '69 body?

[logicred]

Hi all, brand new to welding. Looked at http://www.mig-welding.co.uk" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false; and I just want to double check that this is all correct. I have just got hold of a used Clarke 130TE Gas welder and have been recommended to get:

- 10 year plan for gas bottle rental @ £84
- 95/5 Argon Mix gas (10 litres) £19
- Regulator @ £39
(all prices + VAT)

I want to weld in repair panels only, no chassis stuff at the moment. Does this sound correct?

My small angle grinder with a cutting blade seems a bit fierce around the bottom of the windows. I have one of those long drill extensions http://www.toolspot.co.uk/product/taylor-flexible-drill-shaft which can fit a dremel style attchement on the end. Is this would would normally be used with some kind of mini cutting wheel for precise cutting? Or perhaps just snippers to cut out rott?

Thanks in advance.

 

[Fortunate Son]

I use a Dremel for precise cutting - originally a 300 version (125 Watt) but they tend to blow switches too regularly, so just upgraded to a 4000 (175 Watt) which is a lot better so far.

For really good finishing of welds etc I have found that a "Roloc" type 90 degree die grinder with 3m sanding / surface conditioning discs doa great job, but you will need a half decent compressor to run one. It is possible to do a pretty good job with a Dremel if your careful though.

Welder wise, that sounds OK to me, but gas wise (I have learnt the hard way by using disposables) this seems a pretty good way of getting economical Argon / Co2 mix:

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Argon-CO2-Mig-Welding-Gas-/110945472168?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_3&hash=item19d4dd8ea8" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

Though they are very close to me so I won't have any courier / delivery costs.

Also, I would recommend an auto darkening helmet. I got one from Welders Warehouse, cost me about 80 quid around 4 years ago but I see they are currently doing them for 69 quid incl free gloves and apron.

http://www.thewelderswarehouse.com/Welding/Welding_Helmet.html" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

Hope this helps

Andy

 

[BJ1]

You will need a number of clamps (I use about 15 clamps of various designs, including Mole Grips) and some Intergrips to hold awkward panels together before you weld them. You may also want to upgrade the earth clamp on the welder to one with copper jaws.

 

[Porkpie]

You seem to have most of the right kit so far. I would reccomend 1mm cutting discs off evil bay, and also goggles/ear protectors, there are a few of us on here who have made more than one trip to hospital to have metal removed from our eyes . Also when working near windows cover them in thick card, this will save you money later.

Regards, Si

 

[Pete B]

Not meaning to sound like some boring 'elf n safety bod, but don't ignore the safety side. Goggles and ear defenders are a must, along with the appropriate gloves, flame retardent overalls are nice too. And ignore anyone who takes the mickey about using this kit, many of us out here have learnt the hard way. You also would be wise to invest in a proper full size dry powder fire extinguisher. Stating the obvious, make sure sparks stay away from glass and paintwork, it's suprising (and scary) how far they go and how much damage they can do.
Have fun, it's very rewarding!

 

[Pete B]

And the correct type of dust mask for grinding particles.

 

[logicred]

Thanks all. Some useful info. It's good to get everything clear in my head and have the correct bits for the job before I even touch a welder.

 

[ozziedog]

Good luck with it as it is seriously great fun and ^^^. Somewhere on here we had a thread about our injuries and if you can have a peep at that before you blind yourself with the welder or the grinder, I`m sure you`ll have a much safer experience. Makes you feel really old to go on so much about elfs and safe crackers, but please find that thread and have a laugh with it :lol:

Ozziedog,,,,,,,,,,,,, It`ll never happen to me,,,,,,,,, I`ll go carefull !! :lol: :roll: :roll: :lol: