Page 1 of 1
How thick metal will I need to weld?
Posted: 31 Aug 2013, 13:17
by Smcknighty
A bit mystic meg/how long is a piece of string this one but I thought I'd ask.
I'm gearing up for my winter project of learning to weld and sorting the following on the van
1 rear arch - big hole!
2 battery tray for diesel plus the shelf bits next to it
3 outer sills
4 foot wells
5 windscreen leak
6 anything else I find?
What thicknesses of metal should I be expecting to weld so i know what welder to buy?
I will post pics as I go on dont worry!
Re: How thick metal will I need to weld?
Posted: 31 Aug 2013, 16:33
by silver surfer
Not sure how thick the original panels are but used 1.0mm or 1.2mm for the repairs. I used the thicker sheet on the steps. Unless you are welding the chassis then only a low amp welder is needed. I have mine (160 Amp 230v Inverter based MIG) on nearly it's lowest setting most of the time.
Re: How thick metal will I need to weld?
Posted: 01 Sep 2013, 10:11
by Smcknighty
Thanks - I'll look at 160 amp welders then, hopefully will find something good. I'm going to start by welding the hole in the side of my sump, means I can put the cash that I was going to be putting towards that towards the welder. Broke the good news to my neighbour last night in the pub! Working on the drive probably makes me their worst nightmare..!
Re: How thick metal will I need to weld?
Posted: 01 Sep 2013, 15:40
by fazzer
use 151 amp turbo mig ,more than capable for welding panels,will agree 1mm-1.2mm.as a mobile welder i use a 151 amp and its excellent .
Re: How thick metal will I need to weld?
Posted: 01 Sep 2013, 19:29
by halfbakedpixels
Smcknighty wrote:A bit mystic meg/how long is a piece of string this one but I thought I'd ask.
I'm gearing up for my winter project of learning to weld and sorting the following on the van
1 rear arch - big hole!
2 battery tray for diesel plus the shelf bits next to it
3 outer sills
4 foot wells
5 windscreen leak
6 anything else I find?
What thicknesses of metal should I be expecting to weld so i know what welder to buy?
I will post pics as I go on dont worry!
Exactly the same list as mine, and a bit more.
I've picked myself up a 110amp mighty mig with gas, wire and visor on eBay for £51. Bargain
I can already weld so it's now just finding time to do it.