Stick Welding tight spaces

by sean Lord
(Australia)

Hey All i would imagine that most of you boilies may have a laugh but if you get stuck and theres no other way, try shaping the rod... most coatings are flexible enough to shape like for round objects tight spaces you have to take the earth off to see if you can get the rod in just bend the rod to the shape and style of weld technique you like turn it on and weld it you can bend stainless rods to a certain degree some cast iron electrodes can be a pain.

i like BHOLER cast iron so smooth also a good preheating technique if you dont have a rod heater is just strike the steel and hold it (NO ARC Length) till the rod preheats but be warned not all electrodes like to come off again if you dont have a file especially for LOW HYDROGEN electrodes (thats the one that gives you a plastic looking slag coating) you can just tap the end of the electrode on the concrete if your in the dirt have a brick handy that will save you bashing the life out of the eletrode to get it to start again

Wearing earplugs while doing any overhead or enclosed spaces.

by Dave Selover
(Sacramento, CA)

I personally wear earplugs welding any position. I am still able to hear and adjust welder for proper amp range. I think it gives you more confidence when welding overhead or vertical. It speeds up production time when you need to use a grinder. My friend lost his hearing in his left ear while welding overhead on a exhaust system. Welding slag dropped right into his ear canal. Safety speeds up production in any shop and possibly lowers your insurance rates. SAFETY=MORE MONEY.
DAVE SELOVER SEPT. 2011

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I agree on the ear plugs. I have experienced a ball of fire in my ear once or twice and know I have lost some hearing over the years.

I also try to wear earplugs whenever I need them and when mig or stick welding to keep the fire out.