Arc Welding 101: Advice for a first-time welder

Q: I’m thinking about learning how to weld. I want a gas metal arc welding (GMAW) machine so I can box my 1955 GMC truck frame and install an independent front suspension. Where should I start?

A: Books, the Internet, videos, cable TV shows, and classes offer more information about welding than ever before. Most are informative, but always double-check what you read on the Internet and the advice from online forums.

Unfortunately, many welding programs in this country have been shut down, limiting night class availability. If you can find a class, take it.

If you’re going to teach yourself, get a video and a good book for a guide. The only thing I don’t like about teaching yourself is that no one can correct you when you do something wrong. It’s easy to develop bad habits when you’re learning to weld. If you can’t take a class, try to find an experienced welder to check out some of your work and give you some tips.

Learn everything you can about safety. Especially make sure you don’t weld with the gas tank empty or half full—the vapors can be flammable or explosive. Tanks and containers can be flammable, explosive, or toxic. Also, disconnect the negative battery terminal when welding so you don’t fry any electrical components.

Master relaxing your hand and watching the weld pool, and learn how to adjust your travel speed, gun angle, and temperature.

Depending on what you want to spend, there’s a good choice of machines out there. Prices vary from store to store, and you also can purchase from the Internet; but when buying on the Internet, make sure it’s legitimate.