Quote: Originally Posted by chubz
Good Info.
Looks like I will need either a TIG or a MIG welder. Does the MIG welder have to run off of DC or can it be converted to use AC?
DC is Car Power
and AC is wall power right?
Both typically run off AC. AC/DC welding describes the process not the mains current.
In TIG welding:
DC- (negative ground) is for typical steel welding. Electricity flows toward the negative pole, so the heat created by the current flows from the torch to the base metal.
DC+ (positive ground) is used for thin sheet metal and when you need to keep the heat distortion down. The heat flows from the base metal to the torch.
AC (High frequency) is used for aluminum and its alloys. The alternating current pumps a lot of heat into the aluminum and the torch, since aluminum conducts heat away fast you need to pump more in.
You can buy a DC powered welder that mounts under the hood of a truck, it's best to 4 wheeling type backwoods breaks downs. In a pinch you can also hook tow batteries together and weld with a pair of jumper cables, it's not pretty, but it can be done.
If you are just starting out, pick up a cheap stick welder, under $200, and practice welding. Get the hang of how a good weld is made. Then think about getting a MIG. MIG welders can be the hot glue gun of welding, splattering metal across a seam is not welding. They can also be one of the most versatile welders, but you need to know the fundamentals. And finally after you are a good MIG welder, then think about a TIG. By that time you'll have close to $5000 in welding equipment, so open a chassis shop and rake in the bucks.
Welders, need some Info!
Look at the date of this thread. Oh and you dont need the nipple, I just have mine capped off of the stock air box.
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