newbie welding question
 

I just bought a Lincon Electric SP-135Plus. I've never welded anything. The main reason for the purcahse was to weld the z-bar bracket to the frame in my '65 GTO 4-speed conversion project (plus I figured it would be good to have a welder). As I was reading through the manual, it recommended that for welding steel larger than .105" (up to 5/16"), that I use the INNERSHILED (no shielding gas) as opposed to the standard MIG process. The bracket is 1/8". Does this sound right? I haven't even started practicing my welding yet, but if I can start with the flux core mehtod, it saves me the trouble/expense of buying CO2/Argon tank right now.

Thanks,
Frank

Flux core is alot hotter and dirtier as far as welds are. I would save a few more bucks and get the regulator and bottle. its the difference of night and day. Its one of the best tools you can have around!!

I would practice with the flux core just to learn some techniques etc but definitely get the gas as Sixt8bird said, it is night and day. Much cleaner and in my opinion much easier to use.

Practice, practice, practice

Bill

OK thanks. I already have the regualtor (came with the new welder). I just need to find a local welding supplier to get the gas. Is it better to run the mix of Argon/CO2 or just straight CO2? Would you use straight CO2 for practice (I'm assuming it's cheaper than the mix)?

Get C25. I dont remember. 75% Argon/25% CO2 or the other way around. That is the exacte same welder I have and I have welded everything on my daughters 68 GTO with it (floor pans, 1/4s, trunk etc) Works great. Play with your setting and you will be right on. I only use .024 wire. I can check my gauge settings for you of what I use if yea need. Did I mention PRACTICE.

Bill

When you go to the welding supply house to get the gas, you won't even have to tell them what mix you want. Just tell them what you are doing and they'll tell YOU . :)

I agree, go with the C-25. There will be less splatter. The welds will not dome up so much. And, you should get a bit better penetration with the c-25 over straight co2.

Bruce