the time has come for body work, got a rust question

[remi_357]

Well the time has come to start cutting out some rust in my doors and rear quarters. My question is my welder is a century 110v flux core welder, will this be ok for some patch panels?

also what gauge metel is needed for patches?

[Smartin]

Yes, flux core is fine...just get comfortable with it before you start on the body panels. I use a 110v mig with .035 flux core wire and it took me some time to get it right without blowing holes through the old metal. I've heard the best way to do it, is to use .023 with gas shield.

Careful you don't warp the body panel with the heat. tack the patch in place in one-inch intervals and keep a spray bottle handy to cool the metal. Fill in your gaps and cool as you go.

18 gauge sheet metal would be the best. Home Depot carries 22 gauge, and I've used it to make small patches...but I would try to find some 18 if possible. I bought a 4x8 sheet of it from Fastenal for $100 shipped. It came on a big heavy wood pallet to keep it from bending.

[gashog]

Heating and cooling guys should have 18 guage galvanized for about $30 per sheet.
Any problems welding galvanized?
Inquiring minds would like to know.

[EEE]

Heating and cooling guys should have 18 guage galvanized for about $30 per sheet.
Any problems welding galvanized?
Inquiring minds would like to know.

You can't weld galvanized, there are harmful gases released. This is per the teacher at the body shop class I've taken a few times.

[73 Centurion]

there are some great articles on welding patch panels on this site:

http://www.webrodder.com/

He strongly and repeatedly says you should not force cool the welds or the metal will get brittle.

John