The Garage Guys Guide To Welding

Plug in the TIG torch. The work/ground clamp should always be in the electrode positive position, and the torch should be in the electrode negative position; some DC machines might not have this labeled. Newer machines have a polarity selector with options for TIG or Stick. Using the selector, the polarities are switched for you. Next, plug in the remote amperage control.

Hook up the gas. Pure argon is fine for the home shop. When attaching the gas line to the back of the welder, tighten until snug, but avoid overtightening, which could lead to a leak. Also, ensure that your gas cylinder is properly secured to the welder or a wall.

Some TIG machines have a pulsing function that pulses the arc between a high peak and a low background current. By setting your pulses per second (PPS), the pulsing function seen here helps reduce heat into the material and control the puddle flow. A good starting point is between 1 and 1.5 PPS. Learn to weld easier by creating a rhythm for adding filler rod.

To set the amperage, simply push the button down and dial in your amps. For mild steel, we'll use 80 amps.

Purge your gas lines. Some machines allow you to hold the amp's button down and dial in your purge time; 10-18 seconds should be sufficient. Next, set your gas flow rate at 15 to 20 cubic feet per hour. More is not better!

Choose your filler metal to match your base material's alloy and strength. If you can't determine what your base material is, try a 5356 (seen here) or a 4043 for aluminum. This classification can be found stamped several times on a filler rod. Select the right diameter filler material for your joint and trim it to a comfortable and safe length. (Some welders bend the end to avoid poking onlookers.)

As a general rule, hold the torch off the base material with enough space in between to match your tungsten's diameter. To maintain this constant distance, use both arms to brace yourself. Practice this several times before attempting it on your truck.

There are different ways to hold a torch. The handle grip seen here is comfortable but doesn't allow for much control.

The pencil grip seen here is a natural way to hold the torch. Use a tighter grip toward the torch's head if comfort will allow for better control. This WP-17 torch from Weldcraft is a good all-purpose torch; smaller back caps are available if you need to get into some tight spots.