Spot weld removal, best method/tool?

[Toro]

I wanted to see if any method or tool/bit was preferred over another for removing spot welds. In this case, particularly with rocker panel replacement. Thanks!

[71blksuper4x4]

I always stock up on spot weld cutters at harbor freight for the job.

[twoskies]

harbor freight spot weld cutter, keep a cup of oil handy, dip cutter couple times during cut, makes them last longer, worked for me, Good Luck with your build

[Old_Truck_Fan]

I've had good luck with the Blair spot weld cutter, model 11094.

https://www.blairequipment.com/spotweld-cutters

[chevmn]

like others, I used the Harbor Freight cutters. Agree with using oil, do not use excessive force, and buy a few, as they will snag and break, but often you can keep using. The cutter is reversible, so once it is too bad to cut, just unscrew, flip over and go again. I just did a few dozen earlier in the year, between both rockers, inner roof panel, and a cab corner.

[Andy4639]

Torch and heat. Then chisel them a part.

[my67c20]

It all depends if the panel in front is the one you want to save or not. If you want to save the panel in front, then I usually just use a 1/4" drill bit and drill until the point is exposed on thru the back panel, then I use a panel splitter from Eastwood, or a putty knife and hammer it thru to break the spot weld. Hammer and dolly any distortion. If the panel in the panel in the back is the one I want to save, then I use my cutoff tool and grind away the weld area from the front.

[Davidf]

For rusty pieces, I usually just use my air chisel. When I want to be careful, I use a spot weld drill bit similar to this: https://www.northerntool.com/shop/to...gaArJnEALw_wcB

[Willie Makeit]

Originally Posted by Old_Truck_Fan

I've had good luck with the Blair spot weld cutter, model 11094.

https://www.blairequipment.com/spotweld-cutters

another vote for the Blair cutter.

[SkidmoreGarage]

Just to pile it on, the Blair tool is great even on modern cars which use more exotic steels (harder), thinner metals, and engineered spot welds. It is a much better tool than the HF version. Mine hasn't broken any teeth and it's still very sharp.

Just center-punch and let the tool do the work. It isn't the fastest, but once you get the technique, it is pretty efficient and both panels are usable.

[Big Kev-O]

Was just about to go with the HF despite my hatred for that place. Glad I read this thread. The Blair tool is only $24 on Amazon, The 3 piece kit with extra pilot is on sale today for $40, almost went with that option. Always prefer Made in USA, almost always regret HF purchases. Now time to replace those rotted rain gutters.

[71blksuper4x4]

You can cut a lot of holes with the harbor freight ones before shearing the teeth off, at least in my use. I usually have bought them for $2.99 or $3.99 on sale from there. They have came in handy on my crew cab for sure. To me, they are a throw away item anyway, like any other drill bit. There isn't many items I would buy/re-buy from harbor freight, but these are fine.

[DPowers]

SpotClaw
https://www.ebay.com/itm/SPOT-CLAW-5...-/130543543466

[hugger6933]

I like the H/F 1/8 double ended drill bit. I'll drill out the center then use a step bit to drill out the weld. I also bought a pair of STECK brand spot weld breakers on is flat the other has a 90 degree elbow.I also have a Snap-On brand spot weld cutter it is quite pricey I think I gave like $450 ten or so years ago. But I have done ten spots in less than a minute with it. Of course a die grinder with a cutoff blade if your not trying to save both panels, grind on the waste side till it pops loose. Any tool you use try those steck or similar type spot weld breakers. Look into them I use them a TON. JIM

[Bigdav160]

I think I've purchased every spot cutter there is. My favorite is Spot Eze

[Getter-Done]

Here is the best one I have used.

Link:https://autobodymetalcuttingsupplies.com/









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[72c20customcamper]

I've always used a 3/8 or 1/2 drill bit. Drill into the spot weld but try not to do all the way threw the weld and just a few taps with a chisel. Been doing it this way since the 70s at my uncle's shop. Rockers on my 68