Conversion of flux core wire feed welder to MIG

[Cgrutt]

Not really prepping, but what the heck...

Found this video to convert flux core wire feed welder to MIG for under $100. Welder is the same one that I have. Think I'm going to give it a shot and then maybe go ahead and replace that wheel arch panel on the pick up...

[Cgrutt]

Ordered the regulator, solid core wire, solenoid and nozzle/tips suggested in video. Will pick up the misc. parts (hose, fittings, etc.) from the local hardware store. Still need to get a tank for shielding gas. Local Tractor Supply Store sells 20# Argon/CO2 mix for about $30 bucks but they want $140 for the tank. Going to see if I can find a used one as they just get exchanged upon refill anyway...

[Cgrutt]

So went on craigs list and only found a couple of tanks but they were really old and fairly expensive. So Tractor Supply wanted $239 for an EMPTY 40# (decided to go one bigger than the small one) Thoroughbred industrial (i.e., DOT rated) tank. I searched for a couple hours last night and they were all about the same price (shocked really). Ended up finding the same one as TSS (important so I can exchange it for a full tank) on Northern Tool for $220. Searched for a discount code and found one for $25 off $100 or more, so $195. $214 after shipping. So saved a little more than 20% after some searching, I'll take it. Still need to exchange it and $40 for a full 75% AR/ 25% CO2 tank.

So, who's got some welding projects? LOL...

[masterswimmer]

Are you able to weld epidermis lipis together?

I've been told so many times to shut my mouth I figure it might just be easier to weld my lips together

[Cgrutt]

OK so got the parts and worked on it this morning.

Mounted and connected gas solenoid inside welding case:



Top view with homemade bracket out of a piece of aluminum flat stock that I had in the garage. Yellow wires are coming off the new solenoid. Connected the input side with a piece of 3/8" air hose and output side with 1/8" polyethylene. Used a piece of stainless bail wire to clamp the small hose.



New tank and regulator. Actually need to get a 3/8" hose bib for the tank as it came with 1/4".



Connection of 1/8" tube to gun. Hose bib was already on the machine. Polarity needed to be reversed on the gun connections for welding with shielding gas.



Also needed to buy a gas nozzle and .030 tip for new solid core wire.

[Hunter]

Nice job, should work great.

[Cgrutt]

Nice job, should work great.

Thanks. Only problem is that it is still a 110v welder. Might upgrade to a 220v down the road. Hopefully will be able to use what I just bought if I go that route.

[Hunter]

More important IMO is the duty cycle. Never cared for flux core wire, too many sparks showering you and burning up gloves.

[Cgrutt]

It's basically a hobby welder only 20% duty cycle at 88 amps but I'm not planning to use it for continuous welding. Main job that I need to do is my truck's rear arch panel, which is going to be a long series of stacked tack welds at relatively low current. Pretty sure it will handle that without a problem.

[Cgrutt]

Picked up a welding cart from Harbor Freight. Say what you will but tell you what, can't beat HF for crap like this. Picked it up on sale for $45 and 20% off code so approx. $35 before shipping. It shipped quick and is pretty sturdy. Didn't like the cheap Chinese hardware that was supplied with it so used some 1/4" bolts I had in the garage and threw a tie down strap around the tank for good measure.



Also couldn't find a 3/8" hose bibb with the right threads so went with a stainless braid dishwasher hose.



Can't wait for the wheel arch panel to get here, LOL!!!

[Sailor Jerry]

Very nice setup, there is a harbor freight retail store in Middletown!!!