Welding Tips and Tricks

I know there's a finishing difference between 4043 and 5356 as in one can't be anodized or powder coated. But... as simple straight up welding only characteristics is there any noticeable/appreciable difference between the two.

Why I ask... When I got the welder I ordered 2#s each 5356-1/16", 5356 - 3/32", 4043 - 3/32" and 4043 - 1/16". For simply practicing will there be any noticeable difference when welding with them?

Thanks,
Doug W.

Both can be powder coated, and both can be anodized though 4043 doesn't anodize as well (depending upon technique). 5356 tends to be less grainy in appearance due to heat soaking.

If you want the best of both worlds (appearance, anodization) 4943 is a better choice than 4043. 5356 is more frequently used in exposure applications as it tends to be more durable to the elements and marine environments.

Thank you!!! What I'm working on now does not have an exposure issue but I have a boat/trailer and "plans"!

4043 afaik requires a little less heat and can flow a bit better.
however its not as strong as 5356.

one thing which i'm not sure on, is generally 5 series is not used in hot situations (like under a car bonnet). however i do not know if that applies to the 5 series filler.

tweake wrote: one thing which i'm not sure on, is generally 5 series is not used in hot situations (like under a car bonnet). however i do not know if that applies to the 5 series filler.

Same. 5356 filler should not be used in aplications with in=service temperatures above 150F (65C)

Bye, Arno.

Arno wrote:

tweake wrote: one thing which i'm not sure on, is generally 5 series is not used in hot situations (like under a car bonnet). however i do not know if that applies to the 5 series filler.

Same. 5356 filler should not be used in aplications with in=service temperatures above 150F (65C)

Bye, Arno.

many thanks Arno.
your on point as always

I'm working on a personal project and decided to use different fillers to see the outcome. I've used 4043, 5356 and 4946. After cleaning up the welds, there does appear to be a difference in each one with a line of demarcation showing. There won't be any anodizing, just naked and polished...so far.
that's my nickle and I'm s s s s s stickin to it.
gramps.