OK, I think it's time to step things up.

[utherjorge]

So, I got a steal on a tailgate off of Craigslist for my '87: $100, and largely "perfect", but I think there's a spot where the two pieces of steel have separated, and from reading the forums here, it seems that it might be best to lay down a bead with a welder to make that seam as strong as possible.

The catch is that I know nothing about welding. I think it's time to learn.

I don't want to waste everyone's time here, and I'm sure that there are threads around that deal with it; a search didn't show me anything simple, so I'd like to ask here:

How do I get started? What should I do?

1. I can only run a 115 unit, nothing bigger than that.
2. I should start with that tailgate, as it needs next to nothing to be "done". However, I have a lot of welding that will need to be done: holes in the rear floor and a tailpan come to mind, and need to be done before I can get it inspected.

I'd really like to learn, and I know my "work" won't be perfect, but I need to learn. Any directions you have or places and links to point me would be much appreciated. Thank you in advance.

 

[4X4HIGH]

Lots of times if you go to your local welding supply shop and let them know you're looking to buy a welder but don't know how to weld or what kind of welder you need they will give you the run down on the type of welder to fit your needs and they usually will give you some quick welding tips and even allow you to practice on some scrap with their welders. You can also look at your local community colleges for classes on welding or even buy yourself a beginners welding book and do some reading.

 

[The Pumpkinator]

Here's a thread a while back, has some good info in it

http://coloradok5.com/forums/showthread.php?t=282552

 

[BoondocK5]

And so it begins...
Modifications to suit the modifications to suit the modifications, ect, ect, ect...

 

[utherjorge]

Thanks for the replies, guys. I've been looking at some things, and I think I am wrapping my mind around this stuff finally.

Now, do any of you have an idea for a good, basic welder to begin the chaos? Is there something at Harbor Freight or TSC or elsewhere that is supposed to be good?

Again, thanks in advance.

 

[496truck]

I had found a nice Lincoln 115v gas ready welder on ebay cheap. It was some place that sold scratch and dent stuff and sure enough, the body has a small dent in it. But other than that it was brand new and works great.

My advice to you, get a welder with a gas kit. Welding with shielding gas is sooo much smoother and user friendly, especially with light duty stuff and sheetmetal.

 

[The Pumpkinator]

Do yourself a favor and throw that Harbor Freight catalog in the trash, the only item I've bought from them that "lasted" for a while is their cheapo multimeters (my dad buys them in bulk) everything else we bought was junk, then again we're used to having 3 large toolboxes filled with Snap-on tools....

110v squirt welders are reasonable; $300-$500 and they usually come with their own little regulator and hoses for the argon/Co2 mix, I would suggest going with Lincoln, Miller, or Hobart, they are quality machines. You can buy from Gasses Plus/Norco or AirGas assuming there's a store nearby