ChuckE2009
Silver Member
- Joined
- Jun 4, 2010
- Messages
- 133
Goodmorning everyone!!
So, I just thought I'd show off my scratch-start setup after someone started a thread about it, and someone else wanted to see my videos... Didn't wanna hi-jack that thread...
Anyway, I run it off my Hobart Stickmate LX, the AC/DC one. Pretty much, you just throw the switch to DC- clamp the stinger lead to the power block on the TIG lead, and start welding once you open up the Argon, and grind your tungsten of course.
I've done a lot with it, actually just lastnight I tig'd up an exhaust for a buddys tractor (Massey 1135, big machine).
I like it because it is simple, theres not a lot to go wrong with it...
And I dislike it because of having to scratch start. Its not something I do everyday, and so Im usually out of practice with it. Plus, its like stick welding in the sense that the lower the amps, the harder it can be to get going. When I tig between about 80 and 160 amps, there aren't any issues, but below that it can be a trick. And the lack of adjustability sucks, although once you have the machine set you can tig all day without any worries. Just wait a few seconds for the metal to heat up at the beginning, then shove more filler rod in when it gets too hot around the end of the weld, but it can be done.
Someday, when I can afford it, I'll buy a "real" tig machine. If you can afford it, I'd say go that route, but if not, scratch start is a good way to get your feet wet.
[ame=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g72rCd8J9oA]Scratch Start Tig - YouTube[/ame]
[ame=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PPKstOZSZug]Scratch Start Tig Setup Explained - YouTube[/ame]
Anyway, I just thought I'd share some videos on the subject. One video is about me setting up my setup for the first time, and the second is a video someone requested after seeing the first one, its just a better look at the parts and pieces that make up my tig rig. Hope everyone has a good week
So, I just thought I'd show off my scratch-start setup after someone started a thread about it, and someone else wanted to see my videos... Didn't wanna hi-jack that thread...
Anyway, I run it off my Hobart Stickmate LX, the AC/DC one. Pretty much, you just throw the switch to DC- clamp the stinger lead to the power block on the TIG lead, and start welding once you open up the Argon, and grind your tungsten of course.
I've done a lot with it, actually just lastnight I tig'd up an exhaust for a buddys tractor (Massey 1135, big machine).
I like it because it is simple, theres not a lot to go wrong with it...
And I dislike it because of having to scratch start. Its not something I do everyday, and so Im usually out of practice with it. Plus, its like stick welding in the sense that the lower the amps, the harder it can be to get going. When I tig between about 80 and 160 amps, there aren't any issues, but below that it can be a trick. And the lack of adjustability sucks, although once you have the machine set you can tig all day without any worries. Just wait a few seconds for the metal to heat up at the beginning, then shove more filler rod in when it gets too hot around the end of the weld, but it can be done.
Someday, when I can afford it, I'll buy a "real" tig machine. If you can afford it, I'd say go that route, but if not, scratch start is a good way to get your feet wet.
[ame=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g72rCd8J9oA]Scratch Start Tig - YouTube[/ame]
[ame=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PPKstOZSZug]Scratch Start Tig Setup Explained - YouTube[/ame]
Anyway, I just thought I'd share some videos on the subject. One video is about me setting up my setup for the first time, and the second is a video someone requested after seeing the first one, its just a better look at the parts and pieces that make up my tig rig. Hope everyone has a good week