Wanting to Weld - Totally Confused

[gtr fan]

Hi everyone,

I am wanting to get into welding with an ambition of doing some handy work on a car project in the future.

Initially though I just want to do some odd jobs at home (make up a wall mounted tyre rack maybe some other type of storage).

So my problem is I have no practise on a welder nor am sure what type of machine to buy. From my research so far I can only think of the following;

- Gas / Gasless Mig for ease of use
- 130 amp or more sounds sufficient for the type of work I want to do (what does everyone think)

I would like to stick around the $600 mark if possible . Can you guys give me some tips on what to look for or even buy?

Are the ebay machines any good? I guess the quality of the torches on these cheaper machines may not be so crash hot??

Regards,

Rohin

[Handyjack]

If you have not done any welding before do a short coarse at a TAFE or simlar. They should be able to teach you the basics and safety and what to buy.
I did a coarse over twenty years ago but do not do enough welding to be really good, but can do enough to get me out (or into) trouble.

[Grahame Collins]

Hi
Before we even get into the pros & cons of best machines, you might check on the type of steel used to build the car.

Virtually all of the cars in the last 10years and in some cases more are made from High strength steel which is not able to be welded.

It may be prudent to research the metal weldabilty of the vehicle slated for welding intended.
Also a look at mig uk may be helpful to you.

Grahame

[gtr fan]

Thanks guys,

Yeah I am looking into a community college course but time table won't be out for a few more weeks.

Eventually it will will be a car of 70' era, probably japanese.

Had a quick look at MIG UK, whcih looked great. Will spend some more time there this weekend.

Regards,

Rohin

[gtr fan]

Well I bit the bullitt today and bought a new Cigweld Transmig 165. Heard some good things about these and the price was right.

Well hopefully get some practise time in the next weeks or so. Can't Wait!!

[Jarh73]

When you get to the stage of welding on your project car I do have some advice for you.

0.6mm wire.

Other than that more than happy to help with any automotive/panel welding.

Once you have a MIG you will find so many things you can now do yourself.

Cheers

Justin

[gtr fan]

Thanks Justin.

Thickness & Types of welding wire is the next thing I have to research but 0.6 for sheet metal, got it.

Regards,

Rohin