Need Some Welding Advice for New Project

[BIGHOSS]

I agree about taking a class. I learned to weld in my vo-ag shop class many years ago. But, I did not use it for about 20 years, so I forgot about all that I had learned. So, when I decided that I wanted to learn welding again, I signed up for a adult evening welding class at a comprehensive high school in Nashville. I went there for the fall and winter semesters.

The first semester I had an instructor that believed in learning it the correct way. We were not allowed to work on any of our projects. We could only weld with a 6011 rod on 1/4x4x6 plate. At the end of the semester, the plate was about 1" thick. We learned to weld in all positions with safety always being the first priority.

We also learned how to use a oxy/actelyne cutting torch.

Take a class if one is available.

Ron

[ToddW]

Blair,
PM sent

[Gary Dotson]

I'm sure that a guy that can learn to build a post & beam barn can also learn to weld! I agree with the others, that if you can find an adult course, take it! I'm basically a self taught welder and although I can lay down a nice bead when conditions are right, learning from a pro will teach you what to do when conditions are less favorable. I suggest you get yourself a welder & start figuring out what to do with it, then when the opportunity to take the course, you'll be ready to learn the correct methods that will make sense.

[Landreo]

I agree with a class if you have the time. I am self taught and right now do not have the time for classes but I am sure it would improve my technique. However, a cultipacker does not seem to be all that hard to weld together. Read and look at some videos and you should be able to do just fine.

I am a fan of stick welding since it is better suited for what I do. MIG wlders are expensive for the size they will weld and are limited when the wind blows. All of my welding is done outside. So I would think about a stick welder first then MIG if needed.

I have both a cutting torch and plasma cutter but do most of my cutting with a HF bandsaw and a 4.5 inch angle grinder spinning a cutoff wheel.

A flat place to work is also important. I always worked on my knees on the ground until 6 months ago I bought a piece of steel and placed on sawhorses for a table. What a difference in comfort!

Eitherway, welding takes some skill and practice but is not out of the range of being a self taught skill.