Bottom picture is not my weld, just an example pic of a flat bead.

I'm trying not to get to hung up on appearance right now, I've only been on aluminum for about two months. My question is what makes a lot of the welds I see so flat? Mine seem to be puffy, I've tried Lots of different settings. The pic is 120hz 65% cleaning Dynasty 200.

I had a bad habit of easing in with the pedal trying not to blow any holes, but ended up making it worse. Got the confidence to drop the hammer and was amazed at the results.

Good advice. I get into the habit of trying to stretch it just a little further and end up regreting it.

Anyone have some good advice for welding tubing 2" to 4 or 5" and round parts without a positioner? I really struggle getting a good position in tube, and can only go about 1.5 inches at a time without having to reposition.