Anyone know how to weld?
I just have a simple stick welder and want to make a pre runner light bar perhaps.
Ive been practicing my welds and i cant figure out how to keep the stick going once i get a spark, it either sticks and i have to stop or i cant keep it going long enough to do anything.

Any hints/ tips ?

 

What rod and material are you using?


What make and model welder do you have?

I know very little about welding, but the wrong rod and an under powered machine can make it much harder than it needs to be. Having a better rod for the application might solve your problems right there.

I'm sure there are some great welders on this site, but you might also want to see if you can find a website out there with good beginning welder info.

 

most likely ur problem is u dont have enough amperage. when its sticking its because theres not enough heat. what size machine is it? if its just a little 110 u cant weld very thick steel.

 

Price of steel is WAY UP. Might be cheaper to buy one.

 

For a prerunner bumper you are better off making your own. Reason is because it is a hot item in demand by many people.

 

its just a little 110V welder. I tried just striking like a match and that seemed to work pretty well.

Ive been looking at people who have pre runner light bars and i was wondering how they attach to the truck? do they bolt into the bumper?

 

what rod are you using? a 6013 rod will be an easy rod to strike and maintain an arc with, and will be plenty strong for your use. if you have a welder that can be switched back and forth from ac to dc leave it on AC if using a 6013 rod or such. if your having that much trouble striking an arc, either up amperage or you need a better ground. kinda hard to help over the internet i could help ya out in person though definitely. im a senior in HS still but weld MIG, Stick, and oxy fuel cut/weld everyday basically and have for the past few years ive been in high school, so i know a thing or 2 about welding. any other questions feel free to ask. take a good pic of your welder maybe i could help a little more.

also, go check out Lincoln Electrics site and read some how-to's and whatever else is on there.

 

Hows your ground?