Time to weld my frame

[MikeV]

I just lifted my Pathy and while "operating" I noticed what 250,000 miles of Wisconsin salted roads had rusted long holes in my frame(above rear axle that was behind wheels).

I have read and searched the forum, but not much actual info on repairing.

I glanced at the few frames at the local junkyards and they were MUCH worse. And retiring my beast before half a million miles is not an option! :Magic:

 

 

I am going to weld the rusted frame as it is in a few spots I am going to purchase a new welder (figure I would spend more having someone else do it (and I have welded my 70 & 71 240Z's front ends together and that "uni-frame" was the thickness of a pepsi can)).

 

 

 

I have por-15 and am cleaning the inside of the frame with air(120-150psi) and an air fitting with 3 feet of bendable copper tubing(think liposuction vacuum) :oops:

I am running it in the inside to get rid of the pounds of rust, sand, mud...

 

 

Questions I have: :confused:

1. I am wanting to treat the interior of the frame with rust treatment.

(if I flood it with por-15 it will cost a bajillion) I am using por-15 on the external parts of the frame) any other treatment recommendations would be appreciated.

Note: I need to weld plating over the existing metal

 

2. looking at buying a new welder, $400-$600 range, 120v, optional gas, wire fed.

Just wondering what everyone uses? (I love this excuse to get a new welder!!! :cool2:

 

3. Any don't forget to's would be awesome (as in take the gas tank off...!)

 

I will be documenting and posting pics soon.

 

Thanks Again!

[mws]

Lincoln SP-135 is the bare minimum I would want to own. And I do! It does a fine job for a home unit.

 

Realistically, will NOT do anything over 1/8", but that should do your frame. Maybe 3/16" with flux core wire.

 

Do the rust treatment after welding.

 

Coating the inside of the frame is difficult... Spraying through any holes with a high volume, fine mist will tend to fill the frame full of fog that will coat a lot of it... but it won't get it all and will make a mess....

 

And just so you know, both the '87 and '88 I bought here in CA were effectively rust free - so you may want to consider importing a blown autotragic from out west...

[MikeV]

Looking at getting this welder this afternoon from home depot

Lincoln Electric

Weld Pak 3200HD Wire Feed Welder

http://www.homedepot.com/prel80/HDUS/EN_US...dgnl.0&MID=9876

 

Sorry for the long linkie

want to get this welded before the salt is spread on the roads!

[mws]

Just so you know, that is a "dumbed" down version with some questionable compromises to meet a price point. It does not have the adjustability,control, or durability of the real SP-135. And Home Depot does not offer the world's greatest support and repair.... In fact, none!

 

I strongly suggest you go to a welding store and talk to them first.

[MikeV]

Will definately take your advice, going after work to take a look at the local shop.

Thanks Again.

Mike

[mws]

You're welcome. Not trying to tell you what you need or should buy, but want you to get a unit you'll be happy with. Ask the pro's about the differences between the SP and HD special and decide for yourself.

 

If you don't have a local Lincoln dealer, Miller and Robart also make very nice entry level 115 volt units. I consider them all about equals.