Tips & Info
Current Articles:
Welding Basics
Buying VS Building A Teardrop Camp Trailer
Stick Welding Tips & Tricks
The Garage Guy’s Guide To Welding: Mastering MIG
Safety Tips For Driving with A Trailer
Hitches, Trailering And Towing Safety Information
Its Your Responsibility! - Trailer and Braking Laws By State Or Country
Welding Basics:
Welding may be generally there these days for years and years, though now it is quite completely different from what it used to be during the early periods. One of the initial welding tries simply by person was known as forget about welding. Forget about welding principles implies becoming a member of regarding two alloys over the technique of heating system, pounding and impressive. The first welders on the planet were known while blacksmiths, but now instances get modified and so the term "blacksmith" is actually replaced simply by welders along with via steel welding we have progressed to be able to underwater welding. Having a fundamental familiarity with welding basics can in fact come in handy, should you be carrying out almost any welding perform, in the home, for your place of work or perhaps at your farm.
As the good reputation for welding basics advise, it's the take action associated with subscribing to a couple of precious metals in a very strong relationship and the essentials are actually used extensively in every aspects of our way of life coming from homes for you to travelling, maintenance and occasionally inside private associations. Learning some welding techniques is definitely an popular art in america, as they can be good to anybody small, adult or even aging adults; you need to simply understand a number of typical fundamentals involving welding.
Metal Welding Fundamentals
Metal is a nightmare regarding welders. It can be known to be the most difficult material to be able to weld, because in the ore as well as metal kind, it's a variety of actual along with substance components, that will always be understood at length just before welding the idea. As it's mixed with a great many other alloys, it is hard to decide the particular reducing temperature associated with aluminum. It won't also modify shade any time it's warmed up, rendering it hard for the particular welder to identify the idea. Prior to starting welding about it's put together metallic form, there are some features that you need to be familiar with this kind of metallic.
Your melting reason for metal oxide is actually greater than their base metals. Aluminium oxide does not will dissolve right up until the idea actually reaches 3722��F (2050��C).
It really is pointed out that hydrogen melts throughout light weight aluminum simply, the main problem begins when the light weight aluminum is at their solid stage. Hydrogen can't serum along with aluminum. Whenever aluminium is strong that leads to problems with porosity throughout welding.
If you are intending to perform arc welding, aluminum will be needing an advanced level of warmth, because it is a fantastic conductor regarding energy when compared with metals. The greater the passing, the bottom heat, because the electrodes allow the energy to pass easily.
Just about any work with light weight aluminum expect your winter conductivity to become high, due to the certain high temperature. Winter conductivity involving metal will be six times steamy when compared with steel, this is because metal is a bit more responsive to temperature as compared to metals.
The instruments required to use metal are usually TIG welder (Tungsten Inert Petrol Welder), pair associated with hand protection and a great solid welding head protection. Ensure that you wear a natural cotton shirt that's long-sleeved for welding while TIG welding process gives off Ultra violet rays this means you will burn you. With regard to welding aluminum, specialists say that combining argon along with helium gasoline works best and use any steel brush for cleaning.
TIG Welding Essentials
It's essential to have the expertise in TIG welding fundamentals, that may be useful for the actual welding regardless of the sort associated with material like stainless-steel, carbon metal, nickel other metals, light weight aluminum precious metals, titanium metals, and many others. TIG welding is a sort of sheltering arc process, that is akin to MIG welding. The sole big difference is the arc is not manufactured from any palatable line, nevertheless of an non-consumable tungsten electrode. Before commencing around the TIG welding essentials, below are a few guidelines and a few TIG welding techniques which you have to don't forget:
TIG welding power source should always be the AC/DC welder, that features an obligation period that is at least 60%. The welder should also have a great rate of recurrence electrical generator added the equipment. Higher consistency must continue a well balanced arc during the zero current situations in the current routine.
Often obtain a branded torch pertaining to TIG welding. The actual flashlight is going to be necessary to supply the two safeguarding electric latest on the weld joint. Purchase a flashlight which fits perfectly in your palm. There are lots of varieties of torches available just like air-cooled as well as water-cooled, which can make TIG welding simple.
Ultrasonic Welding Essentials
By using ultrasound welding, applying large rate of recurrence shake of your sonography for the steel that should become welded. The particular welding places these people under time limits and holds these collectively, until finally they generate a great point out weld. Ultrasonic welding can be useful for plastic material welding and different varieties of metals. Let us look into some good info in ultrasonic welding. If you are employing an ultrasound welding, there's no need regarding screws, toenails, soldering or even glues to keep the types of materials bound. Oscillations are employed in thermoplastics, as plastic is actually dissolved because of vibrations from the ultrasound. These oscillations are made via a welding sonotrode (welding horn) and they alleviate your plastic-type material with distinct shared. With a later on point, durability involving weld can be screened by simply thinking about the search from the equipment and the resources that are welded.
Flux Wire Welding Principles
Flux wires or even flux cored are used by simply almost all wire-feed welders. The actual flux is found within the line as well as gives you a new safeguarding fuel, when the wire can be welded. Throughout flux wire welding there is no need regarding condensed protecting fuel, since the line can be deep infiltrating being a 6011 adhere electrode. Flux insert is right within blustery conditions and it is common regarding pastimes and farm function. So let's observe some basic specifics of welding a flux line. Welding reliable wiring need a shielding gasoline, which is also termed as a material inert petrol (MIG). It is made in a cylinder and is also either CO2 or perhaps a blend of CO2 as well as argon gas. MIG petrol provides you with a new clear weld with no slag as well as a minimum spatter and provide you the benefits of weld thinner cables. People favor cable supply welder, since it is simple to operate and you're capable of supporting safe and sound distance in the welding course of action which can be quite necessary. Always use tiny dimension cable regarding skinny materials and big size line regarding thicker and also powerful metals. Be sure you utilize correct type of cable for your bottom steel.
Carbon is good for welding steel, yet it's not advised with regard to skinny alloys, this is when you have C25 fuel (argon 75%/CO2 25%). With regard to metal go for argon. Purchase the right type of insert for welding. Look at the mother nature of one's welding projects as well as evaluate the character of one's alloys.
Consequently we were holding a number of several types of welding principles that could be invaluable for a professional plus an newbie. Use branded products and also the appropriate safety products even though performing any kind of welding task.
As the good reputation for welding basics advise, it's the take action associated with subscribing to a couple of precious metals in a very strong relationship and the essentials are actually used extensively in every aspects of our way of life coming from homes for you to travelling, maintenance and occasionally inside private associations. Learning some welding techniques is definitely an popular art in america, as they can be good to anybody small, adult or even aging adults; you need to simply understand a number of typical fundamentals involving welding.
Metal Welding Fundamentals
Metal is a nightmare regarding welders. It can be known to be the most difficult material to be able to weld, because in the ore as well as metal kind, it's a variety of actual along with substance components, that will always be understood at length just before welding the idea. As it's mixed with a great many other alloys, it is hard to decide the particular reducing temperature associated with aluminum. It won't also modify shade any time it's warmed up, rendering it hard for the particular welder to identify the idea. Prior to starting welding about it's put together metallic form, there are some features that you need to be familiar with this kind of metallic.
Your melting reason for metal oxide is actually greater than their base metals. Aluminium oxide does not will dissolve right up until the idea actually reaches 3722��F (2050��C).
It really is pointed out that hydrogen melts throughout light weight aluminum simply, the main problem begins when the light weight aluminum is at their solid stage. Hydrogen can't serum along with aluminum. Whenever aluminium is strong that leads to problems with porosity throughout welding.
If you are intending to perform arc welding, aluminum will be needing an advanced level of warmth, because it is a fantastic conductor regarding energy when compared with metals. The greater the passing, the bottom heat, because the electrodes allow the energy to pass easily.
Just about any work with light weight aluminum expect your winter conductivity to become high, due to the certain high temperature. Winter conductivity involving metal will be six times steamy when compared with steel, this is because metal is a bit more responsive to temperature as compared to metals.
The instruments required to use metal are usually TIG welder (Tungsten Inert Petrol Welder), pair associated with hand protection and a great solid welding head protection. Ensure that you wear a natural cotton shirt that's long-sleeved for welding while TIG welding process gives off Ultra violet rays this means you will burn you. With regard to welding aluminum, specialists say that combining argon along with helium gasoline works best and use any steel brush for cleaning.
TIG Welding Essentials
It's essential to have the expertise in TIG welding fundamentals, that may be useful for the actual welding regardless of the sort associated with material like stainless-steel, carbon metal, nickel other metals, light weight aluminum precious metals, titanium metals, and many others. TIG welding is a sort of sheltering arc process, that is akin to MIG welding. The sole big difference is the arc is not manufactured from any palatable line, nevertheless of an non-consumable tungsten electrode. Before commencing around the TIG welding essentials, below are a few guidelines and a few TIG welding techniques which you have to don't forget:
TIG welding power source should always be the AC/DC welder, that features an obligation period that is at least 60%. The welder should also have a great rate of recurrence electrical generator added the equipment. Higher consistency must continue a well balanced arc during the zero current situations in the current routine.
Often obtain a branded torch pertaining to TIG welding. The actual flashlight is going to be necessary to supply the two safeguarding electric latest on the weld joint. Purchase a flashlight which fits perfectly in your palm. There are lots of varieties of torches available just like air-cooled as well as water-cooled, which can make TIG welding simple.
Ultrasonic Welding Essentials
By using ultrasound welding, applying large rate of recurrence shake of your sonography for the steel that should become welded. The particular welding places these people under time limits and holds these collectively, until finally they generate a great point out weld. Ultrasonic welding can be useful for plastic material welding and different varieties of metals. Let us look into some good info in ultrasonic welding. If you are employing an ultrasound welding, there's no need regarding screws, toenails, soldering or even glues to keep the types of materials bound. Oscillations are employed in thermoplastics, as plastic is actually dissolved because of vibrations from the ultrasound. These oscillations are made via a welding sonotrode (welding horn) and they alleviate your plastic-type material with distinct shared. With a later on point, durability involving weld can be screened by simply thinking about the search from the equipment and the resources that are welded.
Flux Wire Welding Principles
Flux wires or even flux cored are used by simply almost all wire-feed welders. The actual flux is found within the line as well as gives you a new safeguarding fuel, when the wire can be welded. Throughout flux wire welding there is no need regarding condensed protecting fuel, since the line can be deep infiltrating being a 6011 adhere electrode. Flux insert is right within blustery conditions and it is common regarding pastimes and farm function. So let's observe some basic specifics of welding a flux line. Welding reliable wiring need a shielding gasoline, which is also termed as a material inert petrol (MIG). It is made in a cylinder and is also either CO2 or perhaps a blend of CO2 as well as argon gas. MIG petrol provides you with a new clear weld with no slag as well as a minimum spatter and provide you the benefits of weld thinner cables. People favor cable supply welder, since it is simple to operate and you're capable of supporting safe and sound distance in the welding course of action which can be quite necessary. Always use tiny dimension cable regarding skinny materials and big size line regarding thicker and also powerful metals. Be sure you utilize correct type of cable for your bottom steel.
Carbon is good for welding steel, yet it's not advised with regard to skinny alloys, this is when you have C25 fuel (argon 75%/CO2 25%). With regard to metal go for argon. Purchase the right type of insert for welding. Look at the mother nature of one's welding projects as well as evaluate the character of one's alloys.
Consequently we were holding a number of several types of welding principles that could be invaluable for a professional plus an newbie. Use branded products and also the appropriate safety products even though performing any kind of welding task.
Buying VS Building A Teardrop Camp Trailer
The light weight, cool look and easy towability of a teardrop trailer is a big part of why they are so popular. The fact that it can be towed by just about any vehicle including smaller fuel saving vehicles. Its one of the few camp trailers that you can hook up to a Nissian Altima and tow it with no issue. Teardrop trailer owners even get together with other owners in teardrop trailer clubs, and camp-outs.
You will see teardrop trailers of different sizes and shapes. Most often you will see the four foot by eight foot teardrops, however I'm tall so the larger bed that the five by eight teardrop trailer can accommodate is a big factor for me. The five by eight teardrop trailer will accommodate a queen size mattress. The Galley (Kitchen) of a teardrop trailer is located at the back of the trailer. This is where you do your cooking and usually you will have some type of small fridge or ice chest in the galley to keep your drinks cold. I also have my coffee pot as well as a slow cooker in mine. The slow cooker is great when your hooked up to electric, you can throw some meat and vegies in it and a little broth or cream of mushroom soup depending on what your cooking, turn it on low and go play all day long. Then after you have worked up a good appetite and you get back to camp the first thing you notice is the aroma, its wonderful and all you have to do is sit down and eat. Id much rather throw something together in the morning then to have to cook at the end of the day when Im tired. Some teardrop owners even have a small sink in the galley.
Teardrop Trailers have a lot of style and they are so light weight, at around 575 lbs that you will not notice a big difference in your fuel mileage. You will see a lot of customized teardrop trailers making most of them very unique or one of a kind. I love my teardrop, but if you have kids, you would need to bring a tent for them to sleep in because there really isn't much room for more than two people to sleep in a teardrop trailer. Teardrop trailers really are not for everyone, there are a lot of folks with kids that would just be happier in a larger travel trailer. So I always tell people if they have never been around teardrop trailers or have never owned one before, to go look at one for sale somewhere if they can before they buy or build a teardrop trailer and really get an idea of how big they are on the inside because if your thinking your going to put you a couple chairs and a table inside.... you better think again. Most traditional styles of teardrop trailers are only about 4 feet all from the floor to the ceiling and at 4 x 8 or 5 x 8 wide, once you get your bed in there your going to find there isn't much room left. You set up your table and chairs outside usually around the back where your galley is.
I am often asked what type of teardrop trailer is the best, my answer is always "the type you build your self". There are so many benefits to building your own. One big one is the money you will save by building your own teardrop. If you have a good set of plans, this will save you $100's of dollars. Another part is the pride of accomplishment when you have completed it. But one of the biggest reasons is that you can customize just about any set of plans to your personality, style and needs. You can have a natural wood look on the outside or you can paint it or you can skin it with a number of different types of materials.
But just be careful when you purchase your plans, make sure you know what is in the plans before you buy them, because you can get ripped off or worse, you can end up with plans for a very unsafe trailer. There are a lot of people selling out dated, incomplete, hard to read, difficult to understand and even down right unsafe teardrop plans. So if your not sure exactly what is in the plans, ask the seller(s) first. A few good questions to ask are (how many pages do the plans contain?), as this will give you an idea of how detailed the plans are. And you might ask specifically (if the plans include the building instructions or are they basically just the blueprints?), just a blueprint is good enough for some people, but most people out there that buy these plans want some guidance through the building process by reading instructions as well. And another question that I would ask is (do the plans come with a wiring diagram and instructions for wiring the trailer?) because although wiring the trailer isnt hard if you have a good diagram and instructions, it can become a nightmare if you don't. And ask any other questions that you may have before you make a purchase.
You will see teardrop trailers of different sizes and shapes. Most often you will see the four foot by eight foot teardrops, however I'm tall so the larger bed that the five by eight teardrop trailer can accommodate is a big factor for me. The five by eight teardrop trailer will accommodate a queen size mattress. The Galley (Kitchen) of a teardrop trailer is located at the back of the trailer. This is where you do your cooking and usually you will have some type of small fridge or ice chest in the galley to keep your drinks cold. I also have my coffee pot as well as a slow cooker in mine. The slow cooker is great when your hooked up to electric, you can throw some meat and vegies in it and a little broth or cream of mushroom soup depending on what your cooking, turn it on low and go play all day long. Then after you have worked up a good appetite and you get back to camp the first thing you notice is the aroma, its wonderful and all you have to do is sit down and eat. Id much rather throw something together in the morning then to have to cook at the end of the day when Im tired. Some teardrop owners even have a small sink in the galley.
Teardrop Trailers have a lot of style and they are so light weight, at around 575 lbs that you will not notice a big difference in your fuel mileage. You will see a lot of customized teardrop trailers making most of them very unique or one of a kind. I love my teardrop, but if you have kids, you would need to bring a tent for them to sleep in because there really isn't much room for more than two people to sleep in a teardrop trailer. Teardrop trailers really are not for everyone, there are a lot of folks with kids that would just be happier in a larger travel trailer. So I always tell people if they have never been around teardrop trailers or have never owned one before, to go look at one for sale somewhere if they can before they buy or build a teardrop trailer and really get an idea of how big they are on the inside because if your thinking your going to put you a couple chairs and a table inside.... you better think again. Most traditional styles of teardrop trailers are only about 4 feet all from the floor to the ceiling and at 4 x 8 or 5 x 8 wide, once you get your bed in there your going to find there isn't much room left. You set up your table and chairs outside usually around the back where your galley is.
I am often asked what type of teardrop trailer is the best, my answer is always "the type you build your self". There are so many benefits to building your own. One big one is the money you will save by building your own teardrop. If you have a good set of plans, this will save you $100's of dollars. Another part is the pride of accomplishment when you have completed it. But one of the biggest reasons is that you can customize just about any set of plans to your personality, style and needs. You can have a natural wood look on the outside or you can paint it or you can skin it with a number of different types of materials.
But just be careful when you purchase your plans, make sure you know what is in the plans before you buy them, because you can get ripped off or worse, you can end up with plans for a very unsafe trailer. There are a lot of people selling out dated, incomplete, hard to read, difficult to understand and even down right unsafe teardrop plans. So if your not sure exactly what is in the plans, ask the seller(s) first. A few good questions to ask are (how many pages do the plans contain?), as this will give you an idea of how detailed the plans are. And you might ask specifically (if the plans include the building instructions or are they basically just the blueprints?), just a blueprint is good enough for some people, but most people out there that buy these plans want some guidance through the building process by reading instructions as well. And another question that I would ask is (do the plans come with a wiring diagram and instructions for wiring the trailer?) because although wiring the trailer isnt hard if you have a good diagram and instructions, it can become a nightmare if you don't. And ask any other questions that you may have before you make a purchase.
Stick Welding Tips & Tricks:
Stick welding, technically called shielded metal arc welding, is an old school type of welding that many newbies learn as they are just starting to train how to weld. This is an important and in-demand skill because many people need this help whether they’re dealing with iron and steels or repairing boilers. It makes use of an electric current flowing between a gap in the metal and the stick electrode that is chucked up in a holder that looks like a jumper cable clamp. The rod is struck like a match to produce arc, allowing it to mix with the metal and form the weld.
Stick welding has been the most common method for many home-shop welding projects for a long time. However, creating a good weld can be very complicated for beginners. The name of the game in stick welding is experience. To be able to master the art of it, you need a good view of the weld puddle.
Here are some few tips and tricks to help improve your stick welding skills:
Choose the right electrode.
Many welders are not sure of the type and size of the electrode that should be used in stick welding. The size of the electrode you choose should match the situation you are welding within and the kinds and thickness of metals.
Polarity matters.
If you purchase an A/C only welding equipment, then you need to get stick welding rods that are specifically created to weld on A/C. Bear in mind that not all stick welding rods are created the same. 6011, 6013, and 7018, for instance, will weld on A/C, but 6010 wont.
Don’t use odd sizes for your metal.
Most metals come in specific sizes that are common. These metals are a lot easier to find and you can weld them faster and more effectively. You don’t need to experiment on your metal selection when it comes to stick welding. To be sure that you have what you need, stick with the ones that are AISI-SAE 1015 to 1025.
Know your arc length.
For a successful stick welding job, you need to use an arc length that is the same distance from the metal as the thickness of your electrode. For example, if you own an electrode that is ½ inch thick, then have your arc ½ inch thick as well. Don’t forget that as you use the stick electrode, you will need to move it closer to the metal.
Using a good auto darkening helmet makes you a better stick welder.
A good auto darkening helmet is very important in stick welding. Most experts recommend a welding helmet that darkens in 1/20000 seconds, can be adjusted from 9 to 12 shade, and has delay and sensitivity features. You need a good welding helmet for you to see visibly where you are striking your arc and that alone will make you a much better stick welder. Aside from that, it can also protect you from the harmful UV and IR emissions from the arc.
Stick welding has been the most common method for many home-shop welding projects for a long time. However, creating a good weld can be very complicated for beginners. The name of the game in stick welding is experience. To be able to master the art of it, you need a good view of the weld puddle.
Here are some few tips and tricks to help improve your stick welding skills:
Choose the right electrode.
Many welders are not sure of the type and size of the electrode that should be used in stick welding. The size of the electrode you choose should match the situation you are welding within and the kinds and thickness of metals.
Polarity matters.
If you purchase an A/C only welding equipment, then you need to get stick welding rods that are specifically created to weld on A/C. Bear in mind that not all stick welding rods are created the same. 6011, 6013, and 7018, for instance, will weld on A/C, but 6010 wont.
Don’t use odd sizes for your metal.
Most metals come in specific sizes that are common. These metals are a lot easier to find and you can weld them faster and more effectively. You don’t need to experiment on your metal selection when it comes to stick welding. To be sure that you have what you need, stick with the ones that are AISI-SAE 1015 to 1025.
Know your arc length.
For a successful stick welding job, you need to use an arc length that is the same distance from the metal as the thickness of your electrode. For example, if you own an electrode that is ½ inch thick, then have your arc ½ inch thick as well. Don’t forget that as you use the stick electrode, you will need to move it closer to the metal.
Using a good auto darkening helmet makes you a better stick welder.
A good auto darkening helmet is very important in stick welding. Most experts recommend a welding helmet that darkens in 1/20000 seconds, can be adjusted from 9 to 12 shade, and has delay and sensitivity features. You need a good welding helmet for you to see visibly where you are striking your arc and that alone will make you a much better stick welder. Aside from that, it can also protect you from the harmful UV and IR emissions from the arc.
The Garage Guy’s Guide To Welding: Mastering MIG:
The secret to a sound MIG weld is found by combining several mechanical techniques into one fluid welding motion. It also helps to have the right welder for the job. If you’ve never welded before or looking to improve your MIG welding skills, we’ll take a look at some hot new equipment and techniques to help you master the art on your truck.
Whether you work on your classic truck for a hobby or you’re a hardcore collector aiming for a perfect restoration, welding can be a challenging skill to master and require different equipment for heavier work. Once you’ve honed this talent, though, the world of custom fabrication and design is limited only by your own creativity.
Welding is mastered through practice and technique. Trial and error is the way we all learn, but you have to understand the basics first. At CCT, we’ve decided it was time to take up the MIG gun and show you a few tips to steer you in the right direction beginning with MIG welding. In upcoming issues, we’ll also be covering TIG, Plasma Cutting and even tell you what you’ll need to stay safe as the sparks fly.
MIG Welding – A Brief Introduction
Metal Inert Gas (MIG) welding is a fairly easy process to learn. The welding machine creates an arc between the work piece (what you want to weld) and a continuously consumable electrode (the wire in the MIG gun). The operator need only focus on directing the MIG gun at the joint and proper motion, which is what we’ll be looking at more in depth. Mild steel, stainless and even aluminum can all be welded using the MIG process.
Selecting The Right Equipment
f;">MIG welding is easier with the right machine. Your requirements are based on the level of your welding needs and what you want to do to your truck. To begin our look at MIG welding, we’ll discuss two extremes: the latest entry-level welder for welding in your home shop, and one for the more experienced welder who may want to weld thicker metal and aluminum.
Setting your weld parameters can be tricky when you are starting out. The folks over at Miller recently introduced the Millermatic 140 with Auto-Set™ to take the guess-work out of setup and operation. Auto-Set technology allows the operator to simply set the wire diameter and the material thickness and the machine is ready to weld. It automatically sets wire feed speed and voltage for optimal welding results with relatively no spatter for welding 24-gauge up to 3/16 in. mild steel. Right out of the box, this 30 -140 amp, 115V machine is designed to grow with the operator. When desired, the Auto-Set feature can be turned off and the operator can select voltage and wire feed speed in manual mode. List price for this welder is $789.
For those looking for the flexibility to MIG thicker materials (22-gauge to 1/2 in.) or aluminum, the Millermatic 251 connects to 208 V/ 230V or 230V / 460V / 575 V power and offers an optional direct connect spool gun. The 251 doesn’t have the Auto-Set feature of the 140, but has a higher amperage range (30 - 300) plus, the ability to weld aluminum is really cool. The base list price for the Millermatic 251 is $2,342. The optional spool gun is an additional cost.
The recipe for making a sound MIG weld is the same whether you are just starting out or you have years of fabrication experience: technique. Both machines will give you a great weld provided you use the right technique. MIG welding on steel is different than welding aluminum with a spool gun, not to mention the various angles that you’ll be welding.
Depending on what stage your truck is in, you’ll most likely find yourself welding in a horizontal, vertical or overhead position vs. the more desirable flat position. The angle you hold the gun at will change with the type of joint being welded (e.g., butt joint, T-joint, lap joint, or plug weld). Gun angles help shape the weld bead and determine the degree of penetration into the work piece. We’ll discuss what angles you should use for various positions.
Whether you work on your classic truck for a hobby or you’re a hardcore collector aiming for a perfect restoration, welding can be a challenging skill to master and require different equipment for heavier work. Once you’ve honed this talent, though, the world of custom fabrication and design is limited only by your own creativity.
Welding is mastered through practice and technique. Trial and error is the way we all learn, but you have to understand the basics first. At CCT, we’ve decided it was time to take up the MIG gun and show you a few tips to steer you in the right direction beginning with MIG welding. In upcoming issues, we’ll also be covering TIG, Plasma Cutting and even tell you what you’ll need to stay safe as the sparks fly.
MIG Welding – A Brief Introduction
Metal Inert Gas (MIG) welding is a fairly easy process to learn. The welding machine creates an arc between the work piece (what you want to weld) and a continuously consumable electrode (the wire in the MIG gun). The operator need only focus on directing the MIG gun at the joint and proper motion, which is what we’ll be looking at more in depth. Mild steel, stainless and even aluminum can all be welded using the MIG process.
Selecting The Right Equipment
f;">MIG welding is easier with the right machine. Your requirements are based on the level of your welding needs and what you want to do to your truck. To begin our look at MIG welding, we’ll discuss two extremes: the latest entry-level welder for welding in your home shop, and one for the more experienced welder who may want to weld thicker metal and aluminum.
Setting your weld parameters can be tricky when you are starting out. The folks over at Miller recently introduced the Millermatic 140 with Auto-Set™ to take the guess-work out of setup and operation. Auto-Set technology allows the operator to simply set the wire diameter and the material thickness and the machine is ready to weld. It automatically sets wire feed speed and voltage for optimal welding results with relatively no spatter for welding 24-gauge up to 3/16 in. mild steel. Right out of the box, this 30 -140 amp, 115V machine is designed to grow with the operator. When desired, the Auto-Set feature can be turned off and the operator can select voltage and wire feed speed in manual mode. List price for this welder is $789.
For those looking for the flexibility to MIG thicker materials (22-gauge to 1/2 in.) or aluminum, the Millermatic 251 connects to 208 V/ 230V or 230V / 460V / 575 V power and offers an optional direct connect spool gun. The 251 doesn’t have the Auto-Set feature of the 140, but has a higher amperage range (30 - 300) plus, the ability to weld aluminum is really cool. The base list price for the Millermatic 251 is $2,342. The optional spool gun is an additional cost.
The recipe for making a sound MIG weld is the same whether you are just starting out or you have years of fabrication experience: technique. Both machines will give you a great weld provided you use the right technique. MIG welding on steel is different than welding aluminum with a spool gun, not to mention the various angles that you’ll be welding.
Depending on what stage your truck is in, you’ll most likely find yourself welding in a horizontal, vertical or overhead position vs. the more desirable flat position. The angle you hold the gun at will change with the type of joint being welded (e.g., butt joint, T-joint, lap joint, or plug weld). Gun angles help shape the weld bead and determine the degree of penetration into the work piece. We’ll discuss what angles you should use for various positions.
Safety Tips For Driving with A Trailer:
Take time to practice before driving on main roads and never allow anyone to ride in or on the
trailer. Before you leave, remember to check routes and restrictions on bridges and tunnels.
Consider the following safety tips each time you drive with a trailer.
General Handling
Use the driving gear that the manufacturer recommends for towing.
Drive at moderate speeds. This will place less strain on your tow vehicle and trailer. Trailer
instability (sway) is more likely to occur as speed increases.
Avoid sudden stops and starts that can cause skidding, sliding, or jackknifing.
Avoid sudden steering maneuvers that might create sway or undue side force on the trailer.
Slow down when traveling over bumpy roads, railroad crossings, and ditches.
Make wider turns at curves and corners. Because your trailers wheels are closer to the inside of
a turn than the wheels of your tow vehicle, they are more likely to hit or ride up over curbs.
To control swaying caused by air pressure changes and wind buffeting when larger vehicles pass
from either direction, release the accelerator pedal to slow down and keep a firm grip on the
steering wheel.
Braking
Allow considerably more distance for stopping.
If you have an electric trailer brake controller and excessive sway occurs, activate the trailer
brake controller by hand. Do not attempt to control trailer sway by applying the tow vehicle
brakes; this will generally make the sway worse. Always anticipate the need to slow down.
To reduce speed, shift to a lower gear and press the brakes lightly.
Acceleration and Passing
When passing a slower vehicle or changing lanes, signal well in advance and make sure you
allow extra distance to clear the vehicle before you pull back into the lane.
Pass on level terrain with plenty of clearance. Avoid passing on steep upgrades or downgrades.
If necessary, downshift for improved acceleration or speed maintenance.
trailer. Before you leave, remember to check routes and restrictions on bridges and tunnels.
Consider the following safety tips each time you drive with a trailer.
General Handling
Use the driving gear that the manufacturer recommends for towing.
Drive at moderate speeds. This will place less strain on your tow vehicle and trailer. Trailer
instability (sway) is more likely to occur as speed increases.
Avoid sudden stops and starts that can cause skidding, sliding, or jackknifing.
Avoid sudden steering maneuvers that might create sway or undue side force on the trailer.
Slow down when traveling over bumpy roads, railroad crossings, and ditches.
Make wider turns at curves and corners. Because your trailers wheels are closer to the inside of
a turn than the wheels of your tow vehicle, they are more likely to hit or ride up over curbs.
To control swaying caused by air pressure changes and wind buffeting when larger vehicles pass
from either direction, release the accelerator pedal to slow down and keep a firm grip on the
steering wheel.
Braking
Allow considerably more distance for stopping.
If you have an electric trailer brake controller and excessive sway occurs, activate the trailer
brake controller by hand. Do not attempt to control trailer sway by applying the tow vehicle
brakes; this will generally make the sway worse. Always anticipate the need to slow down.
To reduce speed, shift to a lower gear and press the brakes lightly.
Acceleration and Passing
When passing a slower vehicle or changing lanes, signal well in advance and make sure you
allow extra distance to clear the vehicle before you pull back into the lane.
Pass on level terrain with plenty of clearance. Avoid passing on steep upgrades or downgrades.
If necessary, downshift for improved acceleration or speed maintenance.
Hitches, Trailering And Towing Safety Information:
When you are pulling a trailer or load of any kind, one thing is undisputed: trailer towing is a special
situation which places demands on your driving skills, and on your tow vehicle. There are many safety
considerations to properly towing a trailer, RV, boat or anything for that matter.
First you will need to determine how much towing capacity the vehicle that will be performing the towing can handle. Towing capacity is a measure that describes the upper limit to the weight of a trailer a vehicle can tow. Another important thing to consider is the tongue weight; this is the weight in which the trailer presses down on the tow vehicle’s hitch. If the tongue weight is insufficient then this can cause the trailer to sway back and forth when towed.
After all the weights have been figured it is the tough decision deciding which hitch you would like to
install onto your vehicle. It is important that you get the correct hitch for your vehicle as this will ensure safety all around for yourself and the item(s) you are towing. In some instances the type of trailer you are towing will determine the hitch you will need for your vehicle. Now that you have your hitch installed and are ready to hook up to what you are towing you want to take a few steps first.
Start with fueling up your vehicle before you mount up with your trailer, RV, boat, etc. Next check that all fluid
levels are topped off; especially oil level. When checking the fluid levels double check that there is
enough water in the radiator and fluid in the transmission. Towing extra weight can often heat up a
motor and strain the transmission. All this is done easier without the extra weight and length to your
towing vehicle. You will need to remember that an acute sense of awareness is needed when towing.
Once you have hooked up the item you are towing you want to take a test drive to have proper handle on driving the open road while towing. First start with checking that you have full vision around both sides of the item you are towing; if not - check into getting modified mirrors for your tow vehicle.
Next step is to check that the wiring from the tow vehicle to the trailer are working for turn signals and braking. From here you want to practice turning, stopping, and backing up away from traffic before setting out and not being comfortable with towing. Finally, you want to check that the trailer ball (if applicable) on the tow vehicle matches the coupler on your trailer. You want to ensure that the ball is fastened properly to the tow vehicle and that the mounting will handle the capacity equal to or greater than the weight of the trailer and load. If the hitch you are using is a receiver hitch then ensure the insert (the bar the ball attaches to) is secured with a retaining pin and that is has the locking pin on it.
Always check that your trailers tires are properly inflated; as well as the tow vehicles tires are properly inflated. Your towing item should also always be balanced from side to side to make a smoother ride. At least once a year check the wheel bearings as failure can cause an accident that could be fatal.
In reference to towing with a 4 x 4 truck, the gearing options help the vehicle tackle many different
situations that may be encountered if you have to trailer the load in a an off-road situation. 4H allows
you to drive full speed, if necessary. The high range ratios in 4x4 modes are the same as the gear ratios in 2WD. 4L is for creeping along at slow speeds. It reduces the strain on your vehicle; just keep in mind to stay below 25mph in low range. This does not provide traction but it will provide 2-3 times more torque at about 1/2 or 1/3 of the speeds in high range. Tips on when to use 4H and 4L are as followed:
When to use 4H:
1) for traction when the area isn’t steep
2) when stuck in sand
3) extremely slippery conditions
4) snow
5) ice
6) rocky, gravel roads
7) gullies
8) extremely muddy areas
9) ridges
When to use 4L:
1) on wet, slippery surfaces
2) passing through sandy area
3) on rough trails
4) through shallow water
5) rock-climbing
6) climbing steep hills
7) through mud
8) descending steep hills
Final note; check with your state laws for towing to be in compliance.
situation which places demands on your driving skills, and on your tow vehicle. There are many safety
considerations to properly towing a trailer, RV, boat or anything for that matter.
First you will need to determine how much towing capacity the vehicle that will be performing the towing can handle. Towing capacity is a measure that describes the upper limit to the weight of a trailer a vehicle can tow. Another important thing to consider is the tongue weight; this is the weight in which the trailer presses down on the tow vehicle’s hitch. If the tongue weight is insufficient then this can cause the trailer to sway back and forth when towed.
After all the weights have been figured it is the tough decision deciding which hitch you would like to
install onto your vehicle. It is important that you get the correct hitch for your vehicle as this will ensure safety all around for yourself and the item(s) you are towing. In some instances the type of trailer you are towing will determine the hitch you will need for your vehicle. Now that you have your hitch installed and are ready to hook up to what you are towing you want to take a few steps first.
Start with fueling up your vehicle before you mount up with your trailer, RV, boat, etc. Next check that all fluid
levels are topped off; especially oil level. When checking the fluid levels double check that there is
enough water in the radiator and fluid in the transmission. Towing extra weight can often heat up a
motor and strain the transmission. All this is done easier without the extra weight and length to your
towing vehicle. You will need to remember that an acute sense of awareness is needed when towing.
Once you have hooked up the item you are towing you want to take a test drive to have proper handle on driving the open road while towing. First start with checking that you have full vision around both sides of the item you are towing; if not - check into getting modified mirrors for your tow vehicle.
Next step is to check that the wiring from the tow vehicle to the trailer are working for turn signals and braking. From here you want to practice turning, stopping, and backing up away from traffic before setting out and not being comfortable with towing. Finally, you want to check that the trailer ball (if applicable) on the tow vehicle matches the coupler on your trailer. You want to ensure that the ball is fastened properly to the tow vehicle and that the mounting will handle the capacity equal to or greater than the weight of the trailer and load. If the hitch you are using is a receiver hitch then ensure the insert (the bar the ball attaches to) is secured with a retaining pin and that is has the locking pin on it.
Always check that your trailers tires are properly inflated; as well as the tow vehicles tires are properly inflated. Your towing item should also always be balanced from side to side to make a smoother ride. At least once a year check the wheel bearings as failure can cause an accident that could be fatal.
In reference to towing with a 4 x 4 truck, the gearing options help the vehicle tackle many different
situations that may be encountered if you have to trailer the load in a an off-road situation. 4H allows
you to drive full speed, if necessary. The high range ratios in 4x4 modes are the same as the gear ratios in 2WD. 4L is for creeping along at slow speeds. It reduces the strain on your vehicle; just keep in mind to stay below 25mph in low range. This does not provide traction but it will provide 2-3 times more torque at about 1/2 or 1/3 of the speeds in high range. Tips on when to use 4H and 4L are as followed:
When to use 4H:
1) for traction when the area isn’t steep
2) when stuck in sand
3) extremely slippery conditions
4) snow
5) ice
6) rocky, gravel roads
7) gullies
8) extremely muddy areas
9) ridges
When to use 4L:
1) on wet, slippery surfaces
2) passing through sandy area
3) on rough trails
4) through shallow water
5) rock-climbing
6) climbing steep hills
7) through mud
8) descending steep hills
Final note; check with your state laws for towing to be in compliance.
Its Your Responsibility!
Trailer and Braking Laws By State Or Country
Although it is your responsibility to check the laws for area that you live in, we have included this sheet for you.
To the best of our knowledge this information was accurate as of August 2012, however it is ultimately the responsibility of the builder to ensure that the trailer being built is legal for the area in which the builder resides.
It is also the responsibility of the builder to ensure that the trailer you build is safe before you take it out on the road. It is always best to have the trailer inspected by a qualified individual before taking it out on the open road.
Safety Tips for Driving with a Trailer
Take time to practice before driving on main roads and never allow anyone to ride in or on the trailer. When your hauling a wide or oversized load, before you leave, remember to check routes and restrictions on bridges and tunnels. In some areas you may need to check these for longer trailers as well.
Although it is your responsibility to check the laws for area that you live in, we have included this sheet for you.
To the best of our knowledge this information was accurate as of August 2012, however it is ultimately the responsibility of the builder to ensure that the trailer being built is legal for the area in which the builder resides.
It is also the responsibility of the builder to ensure that the trailer you build is safe before you take it out on the road. It is always best to have the trailer inspected by a qualified individual before taking it out on the open road.
Safety Tips for Driving with a Trailer
Take time to practice before driving on main roads and never allow anyone to ride in or on the trailer. When your hauling a wide or oversized load, before you leave, remember to check routes and restrictions on bridges and tunnels. In some areas you may need to check these for longer trailers as well.
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