[coaster2002]

Trying to weld a patch panel into the center of my 67 GTO not sure what the panel is made of but just can't seem to run a clean bead. Using a mig with argon and tried a stick welder too. Just keeps splattering and blowing through and the mig won't flow smooth any suggestion???????? thanks

[coaster2002]

Trying to weld a patch panel into the center of my 67 GTO not sure what the panel is made of but just can't seem to run a clean bead. Using a mig with argon and tried a stick welder too. Just keeps splattering and blowing through and the mig won't flow smooth any suggestion???????? thanks

[Johnp]

Have you ground both edges of the metal pieces to be joined? Also, what size wire are you using and what heat setting? I have a Lincoln SP130, normally I use .024 wire and the lowest heat setting when welding sheet metal parts. Also, I know that straight argon gas is used for welding aluminum, I have never tried it on mild steel, that is not to say that it doesn't work I just have never tried it so I really cant say. On mild steel I use an argon (75%)carbon dioxide (25%) Mix. If there are any coatings on the metal, be it galvanize, paint, oil, grease, undercoating or really anything other then clean metal, it will contaminate your weld. I hope this helps.

[jim darlington]

I hope you took out the gas tank and pluged the gas lines .

[coaster2002]

Gas tank is long gone and being replaced and so are the fuel lines Thanks

[larry davis]

Prep. the edges of the weldment by grinding or sanding. I prefer a flapper wheel on body panels, as it doesn't remove any parent metal.

[Marty Phipps]

Pure Argon for sheetmetal isn't a real good idea.
75%/25% Argon / co2 is better.
less splatter. I would also recommend .023 dia. wire.
.030 can be used on older heavier guage sheetmetal.
Wire feed welding is the only way to go.
But here's what may be causing your weld problems.
general Motors started experimenting with galvenized metal around this time.
More then likely, your origional floor isn't galvanized.
But the replacement piece could very well be.
If it is, you really need to make sure that all of the galvenized coating is removed before welding.
ALSO!! THIS IS THE REALLY IMPORTANT PART.
Don't attempt any welding without a particle mask of some sort.
3M sells mask's designed specifically for welding.
Burning galvanized is very nasty stuff