Welding on a Tractor

EricM · Nov 5, 2004

I have a spring bracket that broke off towards the lower half of the transmission case (thick metal area). I need to weld it back on. Are there any special concerns when doing this? Any explosion or fire risk? Do I need to drain the hydraulic fluid?

Dick_Jermyn · Nov 5, 2004

Consider the following: 1. keep the ground clamp for the electric arc welder near where you are welding. 2. Draining hydraulic fluid sounds good. 3. leave fill cap cracked open a little so expanding gasses can escape. 4. undo battery and altanator wires. You don't want to burn out any diods inside. 5. You are probably welding on a casting. Watch your heat level.

Dick

ducksjunk · Nov 5, 2004

First. Is it cast iron that you are welding? If so. You need to use a suitable electrode ( made for cast). Preheat the area gently with a propane torch to pre-expand the metal and prvent heat cracking. I wouldn't drain the fluid, as this will help to disipate the heat from the welder. It won't take long enough to create enough fumes to be a fire hazzard. If in doubt do it in 2 attempts rather than build up to much heat in one go.
Alternate choice. If the is a stud or bolt nearby, you might make a bracket to fastem to the bolt and attach the spring to it.

Soundguy · Nov 6, 2004

Might even try brasing it.. or using your propane torch and one of those allow solder rods made for cast and aluminum.. just depends on the strength you need.

Soundguy