Thought I’d put this up. I’m sure plenty of you have had to do the same. These are 7/8” holes for the side rollers on a cat 623B floor. I think a 7/8” hole is about my minimum for walking 3/32” 7018 around while standing on my head… the 1” ones I did for the locks were definitely an easier weld but didn’t take any pictures of them ..read more

Ok, I searched the internet a little bit, and the consensus seems to be that a shade 14 lens is ideal, and you don't want to use lighter than a shade 12, which is ok for limited viewing. I have a couple of 2" X 4.3" shade 12 lenses, and they'll fit into cutting goggles, but I have a handful of shade 10, and shade 5. Would stacking those two shades add up to 12 or better? I know somebody here will know ..read more

Got a few cracks in our old mack water cart. Had a few repairs and thinking of doing it properly. Thinking drill end of crack, v it out. Grind flat and plate over top with some old steel plate. Am i on right track or an overkill ..read more

I have another welder I'm going to be selling. The last one attracted some interest because I offered it with welding lessons. I'm curious what people would pay for private in person lessons or what value I should put on the lessons? They'd be included in the price and I'd rather give the lessons than lower the price but if someone didn't want them, how much should be deducted? Also wondering if delivery could be an added bonus if it's a reasonable distance? I don't mind my time and would... Read more ..read more

My Millar 211 auto set with a M100 gun is 8 years old and until lately, working great. Now, the solid wire welds to the liner at the entry point just past the roller. Changed the liner, same problem. I`m thinking the gun has a short and should be replaced. Any ideas ..read more

Have a 13 year old Miller 12RC suitcase. It was a bargain-bin special when we got it, came with a lighter-duty Bernard gun. It has served us decently, other than it's unique enough that when you order (nothing is stocked) consumables, you better get plenty and order more when you get low. Anyway, I think it's time to finally upgrade since one of my guys is a very competent welder, we're getting bolder with our projects, and this light-duty Bernard is in need of a liner anyway. Not... Read more ..read more

Starting to thaw out a bit and it’s time to fabricate for the upcoming year. I want to learn dual shield but need a little advice. Machine: Forney 270 mig Gas bottle options: 100%co2, 75%Ar/25%co2 or 100%Ar. My local welding supply shop said dual shield is best for heavy industry and he doesn’t carry any supplies for it. I want to support my local suppliers as much as possible, but I’m probably going to buy wire online now. Mostly going to be fabricating dump truck stuff. Tailgates... Read more ..read more

weld the bucket hook correctly: Hi, if it's possible, I need some advice. I would have to weld a hook or a lifting eye to a bucket to be able to attach ropes or chains to lift and move loads safely. clearly I will also have to weld some reinforcement and gusset plates. I was wondering: should I weld it directly or create a slit on the bucket, fit the hook and weld it both internally and externally? Not knowing the quality of the steel with which the bucket is built, do you think that... Read more ..read more

I got this last night . I got it for a little more than scrap value. I hadnt tiged any scene the early 90s and told him i would watch him weld with it but about that time someone else showed up to buy something else so i tried it. I guess its like riding a bike because i was able to lay a couple ok beads ..read more

The trailer shop that bought my tandem dually trailer had an older Miller Big 40 welder they haven't used for 3 or 4 years. I was talking with the owner and he wants to clean up the yard and get rid of stuff he doesn't need or use. He jokingly said I could get the welder and trailer for $100. I said I need to make sure it turns over. I bought a new ignition switch because they had lost the key. The gas tank was bone dry. I brought some gas and Seafoam but first wanted to drain the carb. I... Read more ..read more