OT: Stick welding, 2nd welding question of the day Options

[lapuwali]

So, I have a cheap stick welder that basically fell into my lap for free, and I've tried to fool around with it, but I can't seem to figure out exactly what you do to make this work.

As soon as I get the electrode anywhere near the workpiece, it gets magnetically attracted to the work and sticks to it. I have to yank it off and try again. Holding the electrode close enough to the work to get an arc, yet far enough that it doesn't grab hold, has proven pretty much impossible after a couple of hours of practice. I have yet to run a single weld bead with the thing, just a series of blackened spots on test bits.

What's the trick?

NOTE: I'm not advocating anyone use a stick welder for anything car related, I'm just wondering how anyone could use one of these things at all.

[McMark]

Generally, arc welding is more applicable to heavier gauge metals. Especially the older ones. Regardless, it would be a good way for you to get some hands on experience with welding in general. The lessons you learn arc welding will help you understand other welding processes. Go get the arc welder and start learning. Look for a cheap Oxy-Aceleline setup as well. I got mine at a garage sale for $100, but you can also buy small portable oxy-acetelyne setups for fairly cheap. With the correct tips, you can weld sheet metal, but again, it would be great experience in welding theory. TIG weldings has a lot in common with Oxy-Acetelyne welding. Arc welding and Oxy-Acetelyne are where I got my start. Get out there and learn. (IMG:http://www.914world.com/bbs2/html/emoticons/welder.gif)