jamorgan3777 wrote:Thanks for the reality check on prices!
Ill call around and see what I get.
Edit: Wow, thanks for the metals supermarket suggestion. About 1/3 the cost of the other place!
Just ordered the materials for my welding table. We'll see what this turns into!
Now you have more money to spend on welding coupons and associated gear
Just make sure you clean the mill scale about 1" from the ends on all joints when you weld that table up. And do yourself a small favor, get a can of non-chlorinated Brake Kleen and shoot the inside of the tubing as well near the ends (there's heaps of crap inside the tube) to help give you a super clean weld.
If you are going to hardwire MIG the frame, a trick I like, is to cut small pieces of 0.030 wire and lay it in between the joints, then weld. This creates a small gap to allow you to poor more wire into, making a stronger weldment. Not necessary on many fabrications, but a solid approach for building strong frames. Given you are new to welding, getting strong welds, deep penetration should be your sole focus. Pretty welds come later.
Also, understand welding the frame WILL cause distortion. So, tack up the joints all over the place. Weld outside corners first, then opposite inside corners. This helps minimize pulling out-of-square. Take your time. Welding is a game of patience and managing heat.
Check constantly with framing squares and speed squares to keep your frame just like you want it. And start a new thread when its time and document your project. You'll get tons of solid advice and nothing better than seeing a new welder succeed
