Welding Question

[LOAF]

Sorry if I put it in the wrong spot.. But here goes

Picked up a new Lincoln Welder (100 HD)but was missing a couple of things..

Its a flux core mig, but can be adapted to go gas..

What I have a question on is the Work Wire (Grounding Wire) was missing..

I know I can pick up the clamps for cheap but not sure what guage wire came it the welder.. I figure I can make my own wire by buying the wire seperate and the clamp..

Any suggestions on what guage to use or shoud I just pick up the replacement wire via Lincoln.. Will heavy guage Automotive Power Wire work.. I think its like 4 guage or something.

I am very excited as no I can weld in my supports to take the vert body off, and do the pans throught out the winter..


Thanks

ALex

[Bill K.]

I wouldn't screw around with that juice, get the Lincoln replacement. I found it freaky enough welding, without worrying about if the machine is set up right. Get the gas too, it helps a lot with the thin sheet metal. For your pans, I'd get good ones like from oeveedub.com. The Klokkerholm stuff is made of better quality steel that doesn't burn as easy, is thicker (stronger), and fits better than the brazilian. I used the brazilian pans and wished I hadn't after using Klokkerholm for my clips. Also, I wish I would have bought a spot weld drill to make panel removal easier. An air chisel helped alot too.

[SuperRSi]

Go visit your local Lincoln dealer. They will have the proper size welding wire by the foot and cheap too. They also will carry an assortment of replacement ground clamps. Sometimes bigger is better so you can clamp as close to the weld as possible. They will help you as you go. I would also recommend C25 as your welding gas to make clean welds. Check into any local PraxAir dealer, if you have one set up an account whether or not you think you need it. When you have an account they give bigger discounts on materials or gas than they do for the guy who just walks in and buys. Our gas cost went to about one third of the cost of the walk-in price. And our account was set up to bill automatically on our credit card so no monthly bill to remember. The other nice thing here is PraxAir has a mobile unit that can deliver supplies and is staffed with a guy that can look at your work/welder and make suggestions or solve problems. No extra charge. Real nice guy, real good service.

Have fun,

Randy

[LOAF]

thanks

Randy I will check that idea out..

Take care
Alex.

[NO_H2O]

The 100HD is a 100 amp welder. As long as you use a cable that is rated at 100 amp + 10% (110 amp) you will be fine.

[boygenius]

Remember to practice, practice and practice some more before trying to weld on your cars body. I jumped right in and now I have a few extra holes to fill.

[LOAF]

I hear you..

I was pretty good back in the day with Arch Welding..

I really have no experience with MIG so I will take a while..

I am eager to get the parts that I need to start on the bracing.. For the vert.. in order to take the body off..

Any ideas where I can get 1 inc square stock to use for bracing?

Alex

[BWE]

Hi Alex,
I've gotten decent 'scrap' steel from several local contractors/renovators, the last time I got 1.5" heavy wall tubing that had been handrails in a scool. Very cheap and ugly but perfect for practising and building bracing! The guy was even happier that I was able to remove it myself, and the price got better!
Also you could try the local trader/swap type magazine, sometimes decent materials for good prices.
Good luck, and have fun!
Dave

[boygenius]

You could try your local machine shop, they always have scraps lying around. Just bring some cash and maybe they will have what you want.

[LOAF]

BG, thanks..

Did not think of that one..

ALex