Welding Tips and Tricks

I use a mighty mite 110v AV 70AMP ARC Welder and 6011 rods.. Rods are approximately 8 yrs old. I strike an arc but it keeps sticking at 40 to 70 amps. What am I doing wrong.... ? the metal looks like bird droppings all over...

See photos: http://www.flickr.com/photos/20997693@N ... 212244573/

Don't want to offend you but, throw everything that was in the pictures in the garbage can. Seriously, try setting the machine on its highest setting, and go from there. Also, the rod is too old. Throw that in the garbage and get some new rod.

Can I learn with this machine ? What rods should I buy ? 70 amps max ac is all this machine puts out.

mortizx wrote:Can I learn with this machine ? What rods should I buy ? 70 amps max ac is all this machine puts out.

Buy the thinnest 6010, 6011, 6013 rod you can find and turn the amps up to full blast. 6013 actually comes in 1/16" if you can find it. It should work fine once the arc is started.

Here is a chart to go by. (Hope the link works. Otherwise just cut and paste it.)

http://welding.w4zt.com/stick.html

Practicing starting the arc like striking a match to keep it from sticking so much should help.

Mortizz- I had the same problem when I first started learning. I have an 80 amp machine and run 6011 in 3/32 with out any problems. Like was said before throw out the rods you have now they are no good. I also run 6013 in 3/32. I am going to try some 7018 in 1/16 since I do not have the amps to run this rod larger. Also I suggest finding some scrap that has not been chromed. Just my 2cents

Thank you all for your help... The problem was the OLD RODS.... Bought 6013 3/32 Lincoln and they arc and welded great.
Thanks Again... Time to look for a used nice MIG or STICK machine to help me learn better... I have a Luxury Dress Watch worth 1000.00 retail, Ill see if anyone wants to trade for a machine... or sell it and just buy one...

Mortiz....

Hope the tools were yours you arc marked!

try dipping the old rods in some water, wipe 'em off and retry. still going to need to consider new rod someday. turn machine up to max, the adjust accordingly. these guys know what they're talking about