What welder to weld floor and body panel. - The 1947 - Present Chevrolet & GMC Truck Message Board Network

syncrov69 · 09-30-2007, 08:10 PM

Im' now in the family I have buy my first truck a 1971 Chevy Custom/10 Deluxe and I'm very happy and excited. But the work start next w-end. I'd like to weld some panel and I like to buy a welder for this project. What is the basic welder to do this job. I think that an stick arc welder is too heavy for the job. It is necessary to have a MIG one with gaz bottle or a flux core welder is Ok. Please help me in that.

**Palf70Step** · 09-30-2007, 08:39 PM

I have done my entire truck (and a few other things) with my little 110V Lincoln. For sheet metal, it or one like it will do the trick.

68gmsee · 09-30-2007, 08:40 PM

Search the paint and body forum. They have some good info in there.

Here's a thread that I read when I was checking into the same thing. I haven't bought a mig welder yet, but am getting close to taking the plunge.

http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=146163

sick69 · 09-30-2007, 10:08 PM

A mig or flux core wire feed ,either one will do a great job. If you go with the fluxcore wire feed there will be alittle more clean up but still does the job.

I've shaved both doors,inner and outter rockers,cab corners, a 4"cowl hood scoop, all the trim holes have been filled all with a flux core wire feed.

The biggest trick to welding sheet metal is taking your time. I usually weld approximately 1/4" at a time and move around from one spot to another.

There are a few good threads in the paint and body section on welders and welding sheet metal.

Frank

BCOWANWHEELS · 09-30-2007, 10:27 PM

I,VE HAD THE BEST LUCK WITH MILLER WELDERS THEY DONT CALL EM TRUE BLUE FOR NOHTING. but they are the highest priced. also use gas rather than flux core wire. does a better job. if you can afford it get the 250 amp and 220 volt that way you can go from the thinnest to 1/2" material.
jmo
bob
bob

BLACK AND BLUE 67-72 · 09-30-2007, 11:31 PM

Use 75/25 mix gas and they also make an .023" Easy Grind wire, perfect for body work!!

AH619 · 10-01-2007, 09:48 AM

Buy The Best Welder You Can Afford And Use 75/25 Gas With .023 Wire

ABN82MP · 10-01-2007, 12:33 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by AH619

Buy The Best Welder You Can Afford And Use 75/25 Gas With .023 Wire

Best advice yet!

syncrov69 · 10-30-2007, 08:09 AM

What is the tickness of a cab floor repair panel at LMC, Year one, classic parts, etc...? 22ga, 20ga, 18ga ???

rodnok1 · 10-30-2007, 01:44 PM

I use a mig for floors(shielded wire) and other none external sheetmetal. They are thicker so you don't have to worry about burn through as much with .032 wire. You also can weld easier if metal not perfectly clean(can you say rust). Find 5lbs spools and save some money also.

**passthebuck** · 10-30-2007, 01:56 PM

I've replaced wayy more metal on my truck than i'd care to mention. I started using a friends 220v mig w/gas welder. It only had a 4 position switch for the current & on the lowest setting it burned through everything... Which ever you get, make sure it has a universally adjustable current! In the cab corners where it wraps around it's THIN & you'll need the very lowest current there... I bought a Lincoln 135sp (110v) & it hasnt let me down. I am able to weld the smallest stuff & it welds stuff bigger than its rated for. Gas is the only way to go too - way nicer welds... Enjoy your welder & Lincoln often has a deal where you get a free auto-darkening helmet when you buy a welder. Automatic helmets rock too. Good luck

dfosh · 10-30-2007, 02:36 PM

Hi, good luck on your new project. i have had a lincon stick welder foe years and it has been great for trailers ect . But a gas mig i think is best for body panals .I borrowed a frends miller 130 and it worked great . I finally bought a miller 175 it will do about anything you need chassis or sheet metal .If you havent done much welding i would get some books and read them .And then get some metal the same guage and practice before you do the panals. good luck

ChevyDude · 10-30-2007, 02:38 PM

I bought a Miller 180. It will do all you need with this truck building hobby!

IvelDesigns · 10-30-2007, 02:55 PM

what is everyone's feedback on Clarke MIG welders? i don't have a model number, but i'm looking at picking up a Clarke 110v MIG welder next weekend for $200. It has everything except the tank included.

oh, i only plan to do body work with this welder. sheetmetal is all it will see... well, maybe a go-cart frame or two too.

corn · 10-30-2007, 03:30 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by IvelDesigns

what is everyone's feedback on Clarke MIG welders? i don't have a model number, but i'm looking at picking up a Clarke 110v MIG welder next weekend for $200. It has everything except the tank included.

oh, i only plan to do body work with this welder. sheetmetal is all it will see... well, maybe a go-cart frame or two too.

Ive got a Clarke 130EN & it works pretty good. I converted mine from .030 flux to .023 with gas. Soooooooo much better. You can get a brand new one for $3-something cant you?...

Ben IV · 10-30-2007, 03:51 PM

I have used both lincon and miller, i own a miller 172 and am very happy with it. The smaller lincon machines have alot of plastic in them my miller has aluminum where the drive wheel is. If you plan on doing any heavy welding go ahead and buy a bigger machine, I cringe when i see people doing frame work with a 110v welder.

wibilly · 10-30-2007, 10:38 PM

one thing i never see mentioned is duty cyclewhen this subject comes up.well the smaller cheaper welders do work they have a very limited duty cycle, meaning that they will be ready for a break even before you. i also agree that if possable get a welder with infinit amprage controal rather than just 2 or 4 heat settings, you will be glad you did. as said before get the best you can afford

syncrov69 · 11-04-2007, 08:53 PM

Now I have 3 choice and I don't know which one is better. 115v infinite or 230v tapped. Lincoln 180T (230v tapped voltage a-b-c-d-e) for 600.00$, Lincoln 140T (115v tapped voltage a-b-c-d-e) for 500.00$, Millermatic 140 (infinite voltage, autoset)for 650.00$.

**passthebuck** · 11-05-2007, 12:25 AM

infinite!

*b-rad* · 11-05-2007, 04:38 AM

I have a little 110 buzz box mig does a great job if in doors use gas 25/75 is what i use if outside and wind blowing gas does no good so use flux core wire

BurnerBrown · 11-05-2007, 05:46 AM

I have a clarke 130 and bought a bottle. Bought it on a recomendation from a friend who built an 8 second chevelle with one. It may not be the best, but my has been great. I didn't know how to weld when i bought it, and now I can do acceptable work. Member Frizzlefry built his killer burb with a craftsman welder as seen in his build thread, but it is actually a clarke in discuise. THat speaks for itself.

RicksTrucks · 01-26-2008, 06:32 PM

Anyone familiar with a Lincoln/Century Wire Feed Mig Welder (220 volt) - Model #170GS

Ackattack · 01-26-2008, 07:58 PM

I have a miller 175. I'm currently working on shaving the drip rails with extremely thin metal in the corners, and I've welded up 2" OD 1/4" wall tubing for my jeep suspension. Never had a single problem with the welder. It's not the cheapest welder by any means, but I have no regrets about spending the extra dough.

Another vote for infintly adjustable voltage and wire speed. For thin sheet metal I don't think you'll have to worry about duty cycle, but if you ever plan on doing heavier welding it's something to keep in mind.

72gord · 01-26-2008, 10:11 PM

Rick, I have a Century 250..220 volt welder...have had it for 5 years, does all I want from sheet metal to heavy fabrication (built an 18 foot car trailer with it, in my avatar). I use .35 solid core wire except when doing sheet metal, then .23 any questions let me know

panhandler62 · 01-27-2008, 01:59 AM

I have a little goobery welder... but I'm just doing the one truck and maybe a small home repair here and there... lol

09-30-2007, 08:39 PM	#2
Palf70Step State of Confusion! Join Date: Jul 2002 Location: Gulfport, MS USA Posts: 47,251	Re: What welder to weld floor and body panel. I have done my entire truck (and a few other things) with my little 110V Lincoln. For sheet metal, it or one like it will do the trick. Attached Images __________________ Bill 1970 Chevy Custom/10 LWB Fleetside 2010 Toyota Tacoma PreRunner SR5 Double Cab - DD Member of Louisiana Classic Truck Club (LCTC) Bill's Gallery Life isn't tied with a bow, but it's still a gift. Live simply. Love generously. Care deeply. Speak kindly. Leave the rest to God!

09-30-2007, 08:40 PM	#3
68gmsee Active Member Join Date: Jul 2007 Location: Centrally located between Houston, Austin and Waco. BCS area. Posts: 7,947	Re: What welder to weld floor and body panel. Search the paint and body forum. They have some good info in there. Here's a thread that I read when I was checking into the same thing. I haven't bought a mig welder yet, but am getting close to taking the plunge. http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=146163

09-30-2007, 10:08 PM	#4
sick69 Registered User Join Date: Sep 2006 Location: colorado springs colorado Posts: 737	Re: What welder to weld floor and body panel. A mig or flux core wire feed ,either one will do a great job. If you go with the fluxcore wire feed there will be alittle more clean up but still does the job. I've shaved both doors,inner and outter rockers,cab corners, a 4"cowl hood scoop, all the trim holes have been filled all with a flux core wire feed. The biggest trick to welding sheet metal is taking your time. I usually weld approximately 1/4" at a time and move around from one spot to another. There are a few good threads in the paint and body section on welders and welding sheet metal. Frank __________________ 70 chevy lwb c10 454/th400 and a 9" rearend suicide doors, marker light fuel fill, 4" cowl , mini tub Last edited by sick69; 09-30-2007 at 10:09 PM.

09-30-2007, 10:27 PM	#5
BCOWANWHEELS Registered User Join Date: Nov 2006 Location: KINGSPORT,TN. Posts: 3,035	Re: What welder to weld floor and body panel. I,VE HAD THE BEST LUCK WITH MILLER WELDERS THEY DONT CALL EM TRUE BLUE FOR NOHTING. but they are the highest priced. also use gas rather than flux core wire. does a better job. if you can afford it get the 250 amp and 220 volt that way you can go from the thinnest to 1/2" material. jmo bob bob __________________ I BELIEVE IN JOHN 3:16

09-30-2007, 11:31 PM	#6
BLACK AND BLUE 67-72 Firefighter Join Date: Feb 2001 Location: Yellville, Ar, USA Posts: 1,943	Re: What welder to weld floor and body panel. Use 75/25 mix gas and they also make an .023" Easy Grind wire, perfect for body work!! __________________ '72 Chevy SWB 350 Auto '67 GMC LWB 350 4 speed '70 Chevy 4x4 Stepside 350 Auto Yellville, Ar. USA

09-30-2007, 08:10 PM	#1
syncrov69 Registered User Join Date: Aug 2007 Location: Laval, Québec, Canada Posts: 175	What welder to weld floor and body panel. Im' now in the family I have buy my first truck a 1971 Chevy Custom/10 Deluxe and I'm very happy and excited. But the work start next w-end. I'd like to weld some panel and I like to buy a welder for this project. What is the basic welder to do this job. I think that an stick arc welder is too heavy for the job. It is necessary to have a MIG one with gaz bottle or a flux core welder is Ok. Please help me in that.

10-01-2007, 09:48 AM	#7
AH619 Registered User Join Date: Aug 2006 Location: HARRISON AR. Posts: 309	Re: What welder to weld floor and body panel. Buy The Best Welder You Can Afford And Use 75/25 Gas With .023 Wire __________________ 72 2wd lwb cheyenne super youngest son.green/white 72 2wd lwb cheyenne super oldest son.green/white 71 4wd 3/4 cheyenne super frame off manderin copper / white 4 inch lift. FINALLY DONE / SOLD 72 4WD SWB CHEYENNE BLUE/WHITE 388 AUTO REMEMBER THE COPS NEVER THINK ITS AS FUNNY AS YOU DO. NORWOOD SURVIVOR COPPERTONE BUILD THREAD/ http://www.67-72chevytrucks.com/vboa...d.php?t=259856

10-30-2007, 08:09 AM	#9
syncrov69 Registered User Join Date: Aug 2007 Location: Laval, Québec, Canada Posts: 175	Re: What welder to weld floor and body panel. What is the tickness of a cab floor repair panel at LMC, Year one, classic parts, etc...? 22ga, 20ga, 18ga ??? __________________ '71 Custom/10 Deluxe LWB '71 Custom/30 Deluxe Dually

10-30-2007, 01:44 PM	#10
rodnok1 Registered User Join Date: Jun 2003 Location: Linden, North Carolina Posts: 617	Re: What welder to weld floor and body panel. I use a mig for floors(shielded wire) and other none external sheetmetal. They are thicker so you don't have to worry about burn through as much with .032 wire. You also can weld easier if metal not perfectly clean(can you say rust). Find 5lbs spools and save some money also. __________________ 64 Panel Rebuild Pics Clutch Replacement and Borg Warner T10 Trans Rebuild 64 Panel 1/2 Ton 350cubes/400hp BorgWarner t-10 3:73 Auburn Posi

10-30-2007, 01:56 PM	#11
passthebuck Sisyphus was my mentor! Join Date: Sep 2002 Location: Carleton Place, Ontario CANADA Posts: 984	Re: What welder to weld floor and body panel. I've replaced wayy more metal on my truck than i'd care to mention. I started using a friends 220v mig w/gas welder. It only had a 4 position switch for the current & on the lowest setting it burned through everything... Which ever you get, make sure it has a universally adjustable current! In the cab corners where it wraps around it's THIN & you'll need the very lowest current there... I bought a Lincoln 135sp (110v) & it hasnt let me down. I am able to weld the smallest stuff & it welds stuff bigger than its rated for. Gas is the only way to go too - way nicer welds... Enjoy your welder & Lincoln often has a deal where you get a free auto-darkening helmet when you buy a welder. Automatic helmets rock too. Good luck __________________ passthebuck #5642 -TWO 1967 GMC 910's. One with L6/3-on-the tree and the other with 355 w/435hp & a 700r4. -a 2013 Honda Civic as my "sensible" car Last edited by passthebuck; 10-30-2007 at 01:58 PM.

10-30-2007, 02:36 PM	#12
dfosh Registered User Join Date: Oct 2007 Location: greeneville tn Posts: 237	Re: What welder to weld floor and body panel. Hi, good luck on your new project. i have had a lincon stick welder foe years and it has been great for trailers ect . But a gas mig i think is best for body panals .I borrowed a frends miller 130 and it worked great . I finally bought a miller 175 it will do about anything you need chassis or sheet metal .If you havent done much welding i would get some books and read them .And then get some metal the same guage and practice before you do the panals. good luck

10-30-2007, 02:38 PM	#13
ChevyDude Senior Member Join Date: Jun 2003 Location: Westminster, CO Posts: 3,071	Re: What welder to weld floor and body panel. I bought a Miller 180. It will do all you need with this truck building hobby! __________________ Alex 1971 Lil' Red 350 SBC 700R4

10-30-2007, 02:55 PM	#14
IvelDesigns Commander Taco Bello Join Date: Sep 2006 Location: Des Moines, Iowa Posts: 2,232	Re: What welder to weld floor and body panel. what is everyone's feedback on Clarke MIG welders? i don't have a model number, but i'm looking at picking up a Clarke 110v MIG welder next weekend for $200. It has everything except the tank included. oh, i only plan to do body work with this welder. sheetmetal is all it will see... well, maybe a go-cart frame or two too. __________________ Bagged '50 3600 - Bumper punchin' road kill since 2009... Bagged '69 C10 Longbed - Bumper punchin' road kill since 2007...

10-30-2007, 03:51 PM	#16
Ben IV Registered User Join Date: Dec 2006 Location: Glenpool OK Posts: 255	Re: What welder to weld floor and body panel. I have used both lincon and miller, i own a miller 172 and am very happy with it. The smaller lincon machines have alot of plastic in them my miller has aluminum where the drive wheel is. If you plan on doing any heavy welding go ahead and buy a bigger machine, I cringe when i see people doing frame work with a 110v welder. __________________ 70 GMC custom short bed conversion 69 GMC panel truck

10-30-2007, 10:38 PM	#17
wibilly Senior Member Join Date: Nov 2005 Location: northwestern wi Posts: 2,111	Re: What welder to weld floor and body panel. one thing i never see mentioned is duty cyclewhen this subject comes up.well the smaller cheaper welders do work they have a very limited duty cycle, meaning that they will be ready for a break even before you. i also agree that if possable get a welder with infinit amprage controal rather than just 2 or 4 heat settings, you will be glad you did. as said before get the best you can afford __________________ common sense isn't so common anymore



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11-04-2007, 08:53 PM	#18
syncrov69 Registered User Join Date: Aug 2007 Location: Laval, Québec, Canada Posts: 175	Re: What welder to weld floor and body panel. Now I have 3 choice and I don't know which one is better. 115v infinite or 230v tapped. Lincoln 180T (230v tapped voltage a-b-c-d-e) for 600.00$, Lincoln 140T (115v tapped voltage a-b-c-d-e) for 500.00$, Millermatic 140 (infinite voltage, autoset)for 650.00$. __________________ '71 Custom/10 Deluxe LWB '71 Custom/30 Deluxe Dually

11-05-2007, 12:25 AM	#19
passthebuck Sisyphus was my mentor! Join Date: Sep 2002 Location: Carleton Place, Ontario CANADA Posts: 984	Re: What welder to weld floor and body panel. infinite! __________________ passthebuck #5642 -TWO 1967 GMC 910's. One with L6/3-on-the tree and the other with 355 w/435hp & a 700r4. -a 2013 Honda Civic as my "sensible" car

11-05-2007, 04:38 AM	#20
b-rad Account Suspended Join Date: Nov 2007 Location: FT STEWART GA Posts: 509	Re: What welder to weld floor and body panel. I have a little 110 buzz box mig does a great job if in doors use gas 25/75 is what i use if outside and wind blowing gas does no good so use flux core wire

11-05-2007, 05:46 AM	#21
BurnerBrown Registered User Join Date: Jan 2005 Location: Landsale PA Posts: 82	Re: What welder to weld floor and body panel. I have a clarke 130 and bought a bottle. Bought it on a recomendation from a friend who built an 8 second chevelle with one. It may not be the best, but my has been great. I didn't know how to weld when i bought it, and now I can do acceptable work. Member Frizzlefry built his killer burb with a craftsman welder as seen in his build thread, but it is actually a clarke in discuise. THat speaks for itself.

01-26-2008, 06:32 PM	#22
RicksTrucks Senior Member Join Date: Jan 2005 Location: Claremore, OK 74017 Posts: 2,639	Re: What welder to weld floor and body panel. Anyone familiar with a Lincoln/Century Wire Feed Mig Welder (220 volt) - Model #170GS __________________ 68 Short Stepside C-10 69 SWB C-10 70 Flatbed C-20 70 LWB C-20 BB402 70 LWB C-10 CST 70 LWB C-10 CST 71 Short Stepside Cheyenne C-10 72 LWB C-10 72 Blazer 4x4 4spd 95 Jeep Cherokee 4x4

01-26-2008, 07:58 PM	#23
Ackattack Senior Member Join Date: Aug 2002 Location: Valley Center KS Posts: 3,524	Re: What welder to weld floor and body panel. I have a miller 175. I'm currently working on shaving the drip rails with extremely thin metal in the corners, and I've welded up 2" OD 1/4" wall tubing for my jeep suspension. Never had a single problem with the welder. It's not the cheapest welder by any means, but I have no regrets about spending the extra dough. Another vote for infintly adjustable voltage and wire speed. For thin sheet metal I don't think you'll have to worry about duty cycle, but if you ever plan on doing heavier welding it's something to keep in mind. __________________ Project Bruiser: 68 Pro-Touring C-10 5.3L / 4L60E Project Ironhide: 97 GMC Crew Cab 4x4 Cummins SOLD: '69 GMC 1/2T SWB TBI'd: Project No Buck Assembly Manual Index Sign up Thread!!! Factory Service Manual Index

01-26-2008, 10:11 PM	#24
72gord Never enough time!! Join Date: Mar 2004 Location: sw Wisconsin Posts: 601	Re: What welder to weld floor and body panel. Rick, I have a Century 250..220 volt welder...have had it for 5 years, does all I want from sheet metal to heavy fabrication (built an 18 foot car trailer with it, in my avatar). I use .35 solid core wire except when doing sheet metal, then .23 any questions let me know Last edited by 72gord; 01-26-2008 at 10:13 PM.

01-27-2008, 01:59 AM	#25
panhandler62 Java Mechanic Join Date: Jun 2005 Location: Martinsburg, WV Posts: 6,763	Re: What welder to weld floor and body panel. I have a little goobery welder... but I'm just doing the one truck and maybe a small home repair here and there... lol __________________ Keith 11 Lincoln MKT -- Momma's wagon 13 G37xS -- middle age crazy car 68 C20 Fleetside -- RIP Decorating the whole town up at a cost of $27 ....

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