Let me start this feature by saying that we cannot hope to turn a complete novice into an expert welder in just six pages. It is surprisingly easy to get started with a MIG welder, but welding is definitely a skill that improves with experience. There are some tips and tricks that can help straighten out that learning curve a little though, and these are what we hope to share with you today.
Just please do bear in mind that our focus is on structural repairs, and there is a clue in the name as to how important it is to get them right – structural repairs are not cosmetic, they need to be strong because they contribute to the strength of the vehicle you are driving. Therefore, you are strongly advised to spend as much time as you can welding scrap pieces of metal together, getting a feel for the techniques and your machine before even approaching your project. After you have welded the scraps together, break them apart again and see what splits. If the two pieces break apart at the weld, then your work is not strong enough and you need to revise your settings or your technique. If, on the other hand, the surrounding metal breaks before the weld, then you are making good progress.
I know it is frustrating to have a project sitting there not making any progress while you mess around with scraps, but that is the wrong way of looking at it because the time you invest now in learning to weld will pay dividends later in the quality you achieve on the car itself. It will probably save you time in the long run too as you become more proficient, and it will certainly make the work more satisfying.
Getting started
Welding can be dangerous if you don’t take proper precautions. Sparks and heat can
