starting out

Discussion in 'Metal Boat Building' started by H20fwler, Feb 22, 2006.

  1. H20fwler
    Joined: Jul 2005
    Posts: 26
    Likes: 0, Points: 0, Legacy Rep: 10
    Location: Ohio

    H20fwler Junior Member

    I am wanting to start learning to weld aluminum.

    How much (ballpark) will it cost to get started. I have a cheap MIG welder that I used to fix sheet metal on cars and some small projects. I know I will have to change gas tank but can I get by with a cheap welder to start??? I know it will not be the best but I do not want to sink 2K in starting.

    Thoughts?
     
    H20fwler, Feb 22, 2006
    #1
  2. Thunderhead19
    Joined: Sep 2003
    Posts: 506
    Likes: 3, Points: 0, Legacy Rep: 21
    Location: British Columbia, Canada

    Thunderhead19 Senior Member

    It depends on how hard you're going to wail on the welding. you could destroy a cheap machine in a matter of months. But if you're just practicing, it should be fine (pay attention to the duty cycle for your particular machine). You should practice alot because aluminum it as easy to weld as two sticks of butter (I exaggerate). Switching over from your little machine to a good one might cause you to stumble a bit if you're really busy.
     
    Thunderhead19, Feb 23, 2006
    #2
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