Should I learn to arc weld?

[poordad]

I would say if you have an interest in learning to weld then go for it, you will thank yourself for learning and it opens up a whole world of projects that you never even thought of doing before

I have spent many years learning to weld and have a long way to go an many regards but I would never go back and if I had waited to do it perfectly I probably would have never started.

here are some videos that will help you learn and a great teacher to help you get started with Mig.

http://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL ... NKcYA8GiGA

enjoy

[Chilly Willy]

As others have said, if you have an interest in it, go for it. I'm considering setting myself up to learn aluminum welding for the same reason.

There are a couple options though which may be more efficient if your only welding needs revolve around your trailer conversion.

First would be to hire a friend or welding shop to do the few welds you need as you need them. You'll get a higher quality weld, and if you consider the oportunity costs they'll likely be cheaper welds too. Still might be helpful to pick up an introduction to welding book so you can learn some basics, how to ask for what you need, and perhaps how to set the task up to be welded.

Second option is a metric tonne of crazy glue. An imperial ton just isn't enough.

[ctg1129]

I bought a Lincoln wire welder from the pawn shop about 2 years ago, and with the help of youtube , google and a grumpy old man who has welded for the last 30 years, I literally taught myself to weld. I acquired a bunch of scrap of various sizes and thickness and just practice,practice,practice.
Now I am no pipe fitter or master welder but for what I needed it does the job.

The hard part for me was learning how to set the welder for the metal I was working on and getting the right "sound" when I started. I stillask question every chance I get and still learn from my mistakes, but hey, thats progress.

In the end I think it would be something the will pay for it self over time.

Go for it.

[Tom Kurth]

On the subject of poorly done/unsafe amateur welding: I'm reminded of a time when my pre-teen son wanted to learn to weld. 'Kindly' Uncle Craig was glad to teach him. My BIL showed him the basics, set him up to weld two pieces together, and had him go at it. Nick laid down a pretty good bead for a first timer and thought he was cock of the walk. Craig took the welded pieces, threw them on the floor, and whacked them with a sledge-hammer. The weld of course broke and Nick's ego was severely damaged (temporarily), but a significant lesson was learned and I had a pretty good laugh. My point: I don't doubt you can learn on your own, but for safety's sake have someone knowledgeable and skilled check your work before putting it on the road.

Best,
Tom