Simple cargo bench modification (1/8" steel, using 120v MIG wire-feed welder)

[Arc weld]

Re: Simple cargo bench modification (1/8" steel, using 120v MIG wire-feed welder)

"This rant really isn't just about welding... there is a reason I and many others avoid practicing anything around "experts", because they often want to give advice. If I'm shooting at a range, and there's a grandmaster sniper there; don't come over and tell me I'm doing it wrong. I would much rather get the basics down before showing anything."

The basics of welding or shooting (and most everything else) is knowing your limitations as well as those of the tool(s) you are using.

 

[Mark @ Everlast]

Re: Simple cargo bench modification (1/8" steel, using 120v MIG wire-feed welder)

eYou know, I scanned a lot of this thread...Didn't read every word, so I apologize if it's been said...

Everyone makes welds more often than not when welding for themselves, that they can let slide. It'll get the job done, but it isn't camera ready...and we hope no one sees it. Not text book or even to code. I think experience comes in and can balance out where we "know" where the weld will work and where it won't. I get sloppy at times. It's been 95 degrees in the shade with 95% humidity almost at times for a couple weeks around here. When sweat is stinging your eyes, and you're half dehydrated, but have to get something done, well...you get it done...you get paid...and don't look back. It may not be your best but experience tells you that it will hold. Where it is critical, you relax, go inside to get cooled off, wipe the sweat out of your eyes, and go and make those welds.

I can take you over to about a dozen trailer factories close to me that don't have welds that look this good, even the best welds wont! They are sent out everyday with warranties and a VIN. All vertical down on cross-members, Too cold...too hot...ropey...too concave......porous...and even missed welds. And there are guys that strain at a gnat to swallow a fly over how dangerous newbs making their own trailers can be on public health.

On the other hand...it's embarrassing to know some of these guys call themselves welders. Probably why they get paid 8-9 hour to squirt weld.

Keys that make a good "real" welder in my book
1) Intuition. This involves an ability to pick up new techniques, and ability to cope with less than ideal situations
2) Attention to detail...when it is called for. Not necessarily a perfectionist, as there is NO perfect weld.
3) Ability to problem solve (ties into #1)...and fabricate. Plenty of guys out there that can lay a nice seam, but cannot figure out how to make anything. A characteristic of this type of guy who can weld but cannot fabricate is someone who always makes clunky, heavy overbuilt product with a certain "rube goldeberg" look...with clean welds.
4) Someone who knows his limits, but isn't afraid to stretch them. This is how good welders get better. Don't go past them, but don't be afraid to get to the next level with them.
5) Humility. Because a proud welder is a terrible person to be around. Cocky, arrogant, likely a drunk, wife abuser and/or dog kicker with personal insecurities in other areas. Not referring to anyone here. Just have taken note of that kind of personality in the past.
6) Experience... along with Knowledge of correct procedure, and of what will work and what should work, and most of all ...what won't work.

 

[paulharvey]

100% agree with Mark.

 

[Sodo]

Re: Simple cargo bench modification (1/8" steel, using 120v MIG wire-feed welder)

Thank you for balancing this conversation with a well rounded voice of experience.

 

[Jim in ICT]

Re: Simple cargo bench modification (1/8" steel, using 120v MIG wire-feed welder)

Guys, while we're cussing and discussing welds and procedures, I have a question about the tab welded in as a brace in photo #5 of the original post. I've always welded in a 45 degree vertical gusset in that space. While I realize we're not building a bulldozer or a battleship here, would one be more advisable than the other? Just asking.

 

[Arc weld]

Re: Simple cargo bench modification (1/8" steel, using 120v MIG wire-feed welder)

Guys, while we're cussing and discussing welds and procedures, I have a question about the tab welded in as a brace in photo #5 of the original post. I've always welded in a 45 degree vertical gusset in that space. While I realize we're not building a bulldozer or a battleship here, would one be more advisable than the other? Just asking.

And first prize goes to you. :drink: Two 90 deg. gussets on the corners would provide the most reinforcement although one in the middle would still add more strength than the flat bar because it ties all 3 pieces together in one continuous weld(s). Consider a simple structure like a sign post. It will have 90 deg. gussets where the post attaches to the base plate. If it had a flat bar on a 45, you'd look at it and go hmmm. I suspect it was done the way it was because cutting gussets would be too time consuming.:2cents:

 

[Sodo]

Re: Simple cargo bench modification (1/8" steel, using 120v MIG wire-feed welder)

I suspect it was done the way it was because cutting gussets would be too time consuming.:2cents:

Arc you are correct. A pair of gussets like a "web" across the weld is easy. Its the better way. But the scrap was conveniently the right size and way stronger than necessary and good enough so I kept moving. Barely got this job done as the car was being loaded, thats the way somme modifications happen. Seeing it on the net and fabricating at leisure gives more opportunity for the optimum solution.

However I disagree that one gusset in the center would be stronger than the flatbar as welded. A gusset in the center basically attaches to a membrane.

If I was going to revisit it, boxing it in with 2 gussets would make something that will never break ----> REALLY never break.