first time metalworking

OK, let me start by saying that I want some constructive critisism. NO FLAMING.

So I finally got the chance the other day to start practicing some things I've always wanted to learn. My friends truck was in need of some cleaning up so I got to weld and smooth up some non structural parts of the frame. This is only the 3rd time I have ever welded so I am obviously still learning. tell me what you think.


The welder.


What I started off with.


cleaning up the metal to weld.


Laying down a pass. The nasty part in the middle is my first attempt at filling in a hole.


My bead.


Some beads to make it roll down.


again.


finished product. still could use a skim coat of bondo or glaze.

Finished product looks pretty good. Turn the heat up a little and the wire speed down a bit. You got too much buildup on the bead.

Nice machine you got there. Very nice start for the third time welding and all.

yea its my friends welder, i was trying to get a good buildup on the bead so i wouldnt have to make so many passes. like i said its not structural, just trying to smooth out the transition.

i have that same machine with only minor problems ever....heres a question that may blow some of your minds..theres a tig attachement for that welder that i bought. which required me switching to 100% argon now i cant mig worth a shit with argon....could just be me suckin but i wonder what everyone thinks

Looks pretty good for not welding but a few times...Seth was right about the heat & speed. Im like you...welding with someone elses welder does make it more difficult. Hell while I was in school I used the same machine for 2 semisters & got so good that my
friends had me fixing all kinds of shit for them lol! Anyway...looking good.

i tig weld at a fab shop, and we use 75/25 mix of argon!

Yeah I hate switching welders. I do shitty for like a week while I get used to the new settings. The gas purge valve is going out on my Miller though, makes it tricky to weld. Its kind of like a car that only you know how to start. Most of my friends can't use it now. Lol.

Contamination isnt friendly..Clean that metal up more with a wire wheel.

i did clean the spot that still has paint on it with a wire brush because i couldnt get it with a wire wheel. thanks for all the tips guys.


i do have a question though. is there a way to eliminate some of the splatter? i noticed on the side peice i did it looked like it had an exessive amount of splatter.