I went to Home Depot and got a Hobby Weld kit for $120. When I try to weld two pieces of metal it doesn't spark right away. Then when it finally lights up only it only lights up for a few seconds and dies out.

Does this happen because its a cheap weld kit?

 

A decent MIG welder will cost a minimum of 500 or so. For 120, I'm surprised it works at all!

 

thanks

 

Ok I work at a welding shop so maybe I can help ya out. Now is it one of those small gas kits? or a flux core mig/wire welder kit? or one of those stick welders? And what kind material and thickness you trying to weld?

I just relized you are in Marinda Del Rey, my shop is in Culver City off Jefferson and the 405. If it's a small job maybe I can do it up for ya.


[Modified by GSRoadRage, 5:44 AM 3/30/2002]

 

I have tried stick welding before. It's very difficult and requires a very steady hand. I could not get a smooth weld at all.

 

are you sure its not solder.

 

Solders can be had for $15... If it's a solder, it'd better be a REAL nice one.

 

hahaha yeah stick welding is kinda touchy, I hate doing it. If you want nice clean welds on stainless, aluminum, or steel go with TIG. If you are just going to do heavy steel in your garage use a stick or mig.

 

Sounds like you have a wire feed welder. Does it have a clamp? You have to clamp it somewhere that conducts electricity through the whole piece that you're welding. It should spark right away when the wire touches the metal.