[tutorfetch]

Having trouble striking an arc - trying to repair some rusted sections on my trailer. Sticks strike easily when new - after the coating at the tip is gone I can't strike - I'm only using a 110 setting - will using the 220 setting help?

Mike

[NEW INTERIORS]

Originally Posted by tutorfetch

Having trouble striking an arc - trying to repair some rusted sections on my trailer. Sticks strike easily when new - after the coating at the tip is gone I can't strike - I'm only using a 110 setting - will using the 220 setting help?

Mike

Once you break the flux off the end of the rod, It makes it harder to strike without sticking.. If you want to save the rod.. There's ways you can.. Take a scrap piece of steel and drag it across it.. You will burn off the tip, Then you can use it again..( Unless you got the rod to hot...) When you weld on the right piece.. Don't just try to stick it.. Try dragging it.. (A little).. Like lighting a match.. The 220 machine would make things a little easier.. Make sure you don't have any wet or damp rods..Good luck..


110 machine's are only good for causing people to think they can't weld.. I'll say it 1000 times.. 220 machine's is the only way to learn.. Someone trying to learn.. Should stay away from learning on a 110.. I have seen to many people walk away from trying to learn on a 110..

You may not be one that is trying to learn and this case.. Don't take that the wrong way..

[JeffB]

This site may help: www.weldingtipsandtricks.com/stickwelding.html for rod I used Forney from Ace Hardware for my 110 welder or use Lincoln rods,didn't have much luck with the Harbor Freight stuff.

[kc8oye]

i liked the harborfreight rods.. but you gotta use the right one for the job

tho I've never tried to stick weld on 110v.. only 220.

sometimes dressing the end of the stick on a grinder wheel helps too