Harbor Freight Titanium Flux 125: The Little Welder that CAN Handle a Big Job! (

The Harbor Freight Titanium Flux125 welder has served me very well on the small projects I’ve done so far like my front-end loader chainsaw and tool carrier. And fire extinguisher holder. But I’ve not tried any heavy-duty welding - until today.
In this video we'll see if the welder can handle big job: welding 3/8” steel, which is twice as thick as it’s rated for. NOTE: I am NOT recommending you weld anything beyond your welder's ratings, but I can’t resist trying for myself. And I may regret it later.
In an earlier video I covered how my first BXpanded Quick-On Backhoe Connector broke while digging through some very rocky ground. To their credit, BXpanded replaced it at no charge but less than a year later, the replacement broke in the same way while moving some logs. It became clear to me that there was a design flaw that created a weak point in the connector. I removed it from the backhoe and set it aside thinking I might try to repair it and strengthen it with the Flux125. That day as come. Find out if it can do it.
Related videos:
Titanium Easy Flux 125 Welder: Specs, Setup & Review, - A Great Welder for Beginners! (#83): • Titanium Easy Flux 125...
BXpanded Quick-On Backhoe Bucket Connector Installation and Use (#66): • BXpanded Quick-On Back...
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[@AXNJXN1]

This was a remarkable video! It crushes the concept about Flux core welding may not be sufficient. The price for this machine, including careful insight, fabrication and welding as shown, proves how good this small priced welder is! I have one and mutually can’t find anything it isn’t able to accomplish as a DIYer myself. Excellent before and after shots/video, thank you!

[@DIYMyWay]

Thanks! Yes, it’s a little beast! I had my doubts whether it was up to such a heavy-duty repair but the more I got into, the more I realized it was going to do just fine. And the repair to the backhoe bucket quick connector is still holding strong. Thanks for watching!

[@AlteredCarbons]

alot of people say flux aint good. them people are not repairing machines then cause flux runs hotter and is pretty standard using flux for repairs for large jobs, not saying the 125 can do large jobs but flux can, im sure this 125 can put in work tho

[@INKJAX]

Took me second but, i got it... ACTION JACKSON.. I LIKE IT !

[@JourneyOnLife]

This was a lot of fun to watch too. There is something about this welder where the smoke trails are so pretty. It's kind of weird. I notice anyone using this titanium 75 it all looks pretty close with these cool looking smoke trails.

[@JourneyOnLife]

This type of project is really fun, because you never know what's going to happen, there's nothing really to lose, and you're going to learn something no matter what : )

[@Cameron_D]

When using gasless wire I would recommend e71t-11 "not" e71t-gs. GS wire is single pass only. e71t-11 is dual pass, burns hotter to I think. That's my 2-cents on gasless welding, I liked the video too.

[@Thedoug369]

I was gonna say basically the same thing...

[@iskoos]

I rarely give thumbs up to the videos before I get to the end of it. I did on this one :) This is an excellent DIY video. You sir probably spent more time on video capturing and editing than the welding job itself. Thank you.

[@DIYMyWay]

Thank you very much! Yes, I spent more time on video editing that the weld job for sure. Thanks for watching!

[@jasonholloway2476]

From a fellow Titanium 125 owner, great job! Only constructive criticism I can offer-the INE wire used is rated for single pass. Lincoln has a flux core multiple-pass rated wire that would be better suited for that work. I would also suggest the .035 wire for 3/8" thick plate, as it provides slightly more filler and flux. On the plus side, your prep, execution, testing ahead of time, and beveling of your base metal was very well done, very sound principles for others to follow! I expect that your repair will last many years.

[@DIYMyWay]

Hi Jason! Thanks for the tip and for watching!

[@blakeslocum2732]

New welder here. I’ve welded a few times before so I know the very very basics but nothing more. Would the titanium 125 be good? I was looking at the 170 and it seems a little much for what I was trying to do and I’m just a beginner. Any recommendations?

[@jasonholloway2476]

@@blakeslocum2732 If your budget can afford the Titanium 170, get it. You'll be able to do mig as well as flux core. There will be more initial setup cost with having to get shielding gas bottles, the regulator's, and lines. The Titanium 125 can only do flux core, which it does very well, but flux core is a smoky and more messy process than Mig welding is. There are no shielding gas hook ups on the Titanium 125. I purchased the Titanium 125 because of budget reasons and I wasn't sure if I would enjoy welding. If you for sure know that welding is something you see yourself doing for years, get the better equipment.

[@shermanyoung8185]

Lincoln Inner shield NR211-MP is professional grade flux core wire 👩‍🏭

[@shermanyoung8185]

@@jasonholloway2476 we build, repair and fabricate gates, fencing, railing we run Lincoln electric inner shield FCAW no GMAW not for outside 👩‍🏭

[@jeremiahkastner6374]

I would have put a pin through both the holes while welding it to make sure it stays in perfect alignment. Thanks for sharing this experiment.

[@carlos.75]

Good idea

[@MikeD-ne6ie]

Thank you so much for making this video. It not only proves the welder, but shows the thoughts behind your repair!

[@DIYMyWay]

You are welcome! Glad it was helpful to you. BTW, the welds are still holding up. Thanks for watching!

[@ItsaboutMakingnotBuying]

The little welder's pay for them self's real fast. Any weld that holds like it should is a good weld. Nice job. Later

[@DIYMyWay]

Hi Mech! So true, my friend. Thanks for watching!

[@garyswartz1251]

This has got to be the most informative video I’ve seen yet about the titanium easy flux 125 welder on KZbin.

[@DIYMyWay]

Glad to hear it! That little welder is a BEAST. Thanks for watching!

[@TempoDrift1480]

Right on, thanks for taking the time to film this. I think its time for me to get into light welding. Sometimes I have small 50-60 second tack weld jobs that I need done but anytime I go to a welding shop or speak with someone its like AM radio static in their brain, like they have no clue what I'm talking about. So after 15 minutes of head scratching and Huh? Hmmm, Aaaah, Wellllll, Duh, I finally realize that they probably can't do it anyway. This would be perfect for around the yard angle iron and sheet metal I suppose.

[@INKJAX]

i use my titanium on everything. even up to 1/2".. not a great idea but, the weld had held for 2 years and no flex or cracking. the piece i welded gets tortured so i know its not just a sitting piece... its my normal "in truck savior" ! i use it everywhere and "sold" at least 5 of them to others who were sceptical... the ONLY issue, no replacement parts... on the good side, its covered under the warranty and im told they are now making some parts that are available online. it cant be beat for under 200.00 . i recently built 240 feet of ADA sch 40 railings. solid and stable. i have used it on many different trailers and large items like 2"x6"x1/4" c channel with no issues. very solid welds ! even the inspector was impressed with its performance.. be patient, it WILL burn a lot deeper than you think !! its a great portable welder !

[@DIYMyWay]

Glad to hear your Flux 125 has performed so well AND that it can weld 1/2” steel! It’s also really good to hear there are some spare parts available. Thanks for watching!

[@frenchonion4595]

I bought it as my first welder and it's going great thus far. The thing barely makes any splatter the power seems more than adequate actually it seems too hot for the recommended setting at times. Smallest welder i have ever seen too. Most guys got big monsters but don't weld much. This thing is perfect for most hobbyist. If you weld a lot then yeah you'll want a higher duty cycle machine but this really is awesome and cheap too. Welding up my truck frame right now

[@tinariark8914]

I've had about the same experience with mine and I've welded bigger than 3/8 and cast iron most people complain about penetration I didn't ever have that problem I did have to turn it down a lot though blew right through stuff it wasn't even rated for and I don't believe I ever turned it all the way up

[@DMHRC]

I bought a Lincoln 135 years ago thinking I'd weld a few mower decks with it. Over the years I've built trailers, flatbeds, and one dump truck with it. I have a stick welder for the bigger stuff but hardly use it compared to the little mig welder. They're incredibly handy for these projects and often a huge money saver. Great work!

[@DIYMyWay]

It’s amazing what these little welders can do. Thanks for watching!

[@Justforfun-ek7et]

Great real world review of this welder! Thanks for sharing!

[@billbray8797]

It is always a sense of accomplishment when you can repair it yourself. Nice not having to purchase inferior and expensive parts and keeping cost to a minimum

[@DIYMyWay]

Right you are, Bill! Thanks for watching!

[@loveydovey4u]

I have the same one. I changed the ground clamp and use lincoln .35 flux core wire. Great welder!

[@rickshonsite2435]

Had my fingers crossed for you! Glad it worked out!

[@DIYMyWay]

Thanks, Rick!

[@N0Fumar]

Your original review solidified my purchase and motivated me to make my own review. Thanks!

[@DIYMyWay]

Great to hear! Thanks for watching!

[@mwjii]

Nice job! I have the same welder so it’s good to see it’s helpful.

[@DIYMyWay]

Thanks, Marcel!

[@alittleofthisandalittleofthat]

Great job. Nice to see you fixed it yourself. 👍

[@DIYMyWay]

Thanks, Laurie!

[@kylebelitz6629]

Great video! I'm just starting to learn to weld myself and this was fantastic!

[@DIYMyWay]

Thank you Kyle! Glad it was helpful to you. You may find my earlier review and first use video on the Titanium Flux 125: kzbin.info/www/bejne/qYDRqoVulNN8jqc. Thanks for watching!

[@michaelgallagher380]

Wow, nice job, Martin! Both you and the welder did great. I appreciate your time and effort into making this video! Cheers!

[@DIYMyWay]

Thanks you, Michael! Glad you found the video useful!

[@richardbartlett4075]

Nice job! Nothin better than having an idea that not only works, but is better than new when finished!

[@lelandcox4089]

A BIG BLACK EYE FOR HARBOR FREIGHT I have a Harbor freight TITANIUM FLUX 125 WELDER purchased from Harbor Freight a couple years ago. I am a retired plumbing contractor and backyard hobbyist. I love to build things in my spare time and help friends and neighbors that need something repaired. When I retired and closed my business, I had a stick welding machine but had no convenient place to connect it at my home! It would require an upgrade to my electrical service not worth the trouble and expense! When I saw a couple reviews on KZbin for this Titanium 125 welder, I thought that would be the way to go. I already had a 110 Volt 30 Amp circuit to my workshop! It took me a while to get adjusted to the flux wire welding. I built a minibike from scrap pipe I had left over from the plumbing shop. The welder allowed me to make other things and make repairs for others I wouldn’t be able to do without it. In the middle of my last project, I cut a couple pieces of metal and got ready to weld them and when I pushed the button on the welder, nothing happened! It was dead! The fan did not come on but the light on the ON/OFF indicated there was power to the welder. I checked the manual for a reset button or a fuse and found no mention of either. So, I called the Harbor Freight 800 number and was told there was no repair for this welder. Harbor Freight has no repair facility, and no support is available. I was told by two different tech reps there is no schematics or parts list available from the factory where this is manufactured. “It is not worth getting it repaired and cheaper to go purchase a new one!” If you purchase this welder or many other things from Harbor Freight You only have 3 Months Warranty. It is considered disposable after that! All the reviews and discussion I have read about HARBOR FREIGHT I have never seen anything about their total lack of support for their products! I didn’t even get an “I’m sorry” or any offer for a discount on a new welding machine! I am retired, was an electronics technician in the Navy, active Ham Radio operator and electronics hobbyist. I feel like the electronics in this welding machine is straight forward non computer controlled and any decent electronics tech should be able to repair this given reasonable support. I removed the circuit board from the welder and found where a small component burned of course not knowing the component value or purpose will make it difficult to replace. Providing a schematic and parts list is a very inexpensive form of support that should be a minimum requirement. Their claim to revenue of 7 Billion Dollars tells me they could afford it! Leland Cox

[@DIYMyWay]

That’s a bummer, Leland! They could at least have schematics available. Thanks for watching!

[@xordoom8467]

Wow, that was fantastic! I'm probably gonna pick 1 of these up as well up as well.

[@DIYMyWay]

It’s been a great little welder. I hope you like yours as much as I like mine. Thanks for watching!

[@577buttfan]

Great video.I didn't doubt for one second it wouldn't hold. My bet it would have held without the plate.Great little welder.

[@DIYMyWay]

Glad you enjoyed it! Thanks for watching!

[@johnmedlin5894]

Excellent job Martin! That is a nice little welder! I like the testing that you did as well.

[@DIYMyWay]

Thank you, John! Yes it is and I highly recommend it. Thanks for watching!

[@MyClutteredGarage]

Nicely done, Martin. That looks like it will hold up well. Great edit!

[@DIYMyWay]

Thanks, Ed! Hopefully it will.

[@norcal8718]

Thank you for the video and sharing your time and knowledge it is much appreciated. I am a beginner welder trying to teach myself how to weld with this same welder and you gave me some tips I take without even knowing it, lol.

[@DIYMyWay]

Glad to help! Thanks for watching!

[@clicknstack1398]

Why your channel doesn't have 5 million subscribers is beyond reason. Bravo, sir.

[@DIYMyWay]

Thank you very much!

[@GregsWorkshopOregon]

Great video. I just picked one of these welders up this afternoon, I'm excited to put it through it's paces.

[@DIYMyWay]

Thanks! I hope you enjoy yours as much as I do mine.

[@heilwoodworkingandmore1892]

Nice repair! Thanks for sharing.

[@DIYMyWay]

Thanks for watching!

[@davidedwards3734]

Great video. Glad you were successful in your repair!! Have a Safe Day

[@DIYMyWay]

Thanks, David!

[@sktech76]

As always, great video. Thanks for taking the time making all the edits and adding your narration. Great repair work. I own the same welder and it’s nice to know it can be pushed further than the limits they provide for it. Ive used mine to weld chain hooks to my FEL on my BX23S and it did an excellent job. I keep reminding myself, im a healthcare provider by trade and not a welder. It’s helped me live with the welds I’ve made thus far!

[@DIYMyWay]

Thank you for your kind words, Keith! My welds do a good job of reminding I am not a welder by trade. LOL! But so far they have all held up well. Thanks for watching!

[@richd9771]

Great video, I wasnt sure about this one but after watching your video Im sold and will give it a try. Thank you

[@DIYMyWay]

Glad it was helpful! Thanks for stopping by!

[@russelljohnson6243]

I too think it looks fine and you did a great job in your repair efforts. I believe it will hold up for years to come!

[@DIYMyWay]

Thanks, Russell! I think so too!

[@dcm3033]

At first I was very skeptical about the weld holding, but you convinced me it's the little welder that could. I'm sure your good prep work had a lot to do with it.

[@tinariark8914]

I've welded 1/2 and a small cast iron vice with mine and both are still holding the 1/2 is a hitch on a dump truck

[@tradmanmike3360]

This is my second time to watch this video. This video was my encouragement, I had mine delivered today. I'm building my own off road, Over lander bumper for my 02 4Runner. Thank you for sharing! Thumbs up!!!!

[@DIYMyWay]

Glad to hear it! Thanks for watching!

[@juanrichard4331]

Wow good job sir, been thinking about buying one of these models and probably will now.

[@DIYMyWay]

Thanks, Juan! It’s been the perfect welder for my needs.

[@Frank98127]

I have the BXpanded quick attach also. Mine didn't break yet, never thought it would have a flaw problem. I will weld some support on mine before it does. Great video thanks for sharing.

[@DIYMyWay]

Hi Frank! Yes, I recommend you weld supports on BEFORE it breaks. I had two of them break on me. Hopefully the repair and improvement will last. Thanks for watching!

[@nick39]

Nice video! You’re very humble by playing down your welding skills.🙂 Those welds looked great! Nice job! Thanks for the video!

[@DIYMyWay]

Very kind of you to say, Nick! I appreciate it but I am NOT a skilled welder. I’ve had no training beyond KZbin videos and haven’t done it often enough to improve a lot. However, everything I have welded has held up well, including the repair to the backhoe quick connector. Thanks for watching!

[@howardnetterville1335]

Very good! I hope B expanded will look into the design and make it better.

[@DIYMyWay]

Thanks, Howard! Me too!

[@martyb3783]

Nicely Done! I have a small welder that I bought from Harbor freight on sale for emergencys and have never used it. I might break it out this weekend and see how it goes. Thanks for taking the time to make this video.

[@DIYMyWay]

My pleasure, Marty! Yes, get that welder out and have some fun. Thanks for watching!

[@smaqdaddy]

Came for a review on this welder. Dig your Bob Ross narration tone sir! Very informative video, thank you so much for sharing!

[@DIYMyWay]

It’s been a great little welder that punches above it’s weight. A lot of power in that little green box. Glad you like my narration style!

[@tinariark8914]

I've welded 1/2 inch steel with mine a hitch for a dump truck it's still holding I also welded my little cast iron vice back together it's still together to needless to say I'm impressed with it. Unfortunately it died on me a few nights ago was welding on a bike frame and it frid the board I might be able to fix it but not positive really hope so though it never had any problems with penetration like people say a lot of 110 have

[@DIYMyWay]

Hi Tina! Yep, it's an impressive little machine! Sorry yours crapped out on you. Fingers crossed that you can fix it. Thanks for watching!

[@raysimon1368]

I have to admit I did not give this welder very much credit but for the money it will work well past its limits bought it when they first came out about 4 or 5 years ago good job on the backhoe welded my backhoe with mine too

[@kathmandu1575]

Excellent video - thanks!

[@thesowerspatch8918]

Hey bud, nice video! I bought the same welder over a year ago. I used to be a machinist for a long time before messing up my back. I used to do some of my own welding when I needed to. So I was very pleased with this little welder. Just have to make sure you use the good wire is what I noticed.

[@DIYMyWay]

Thanks! Yep, it’s a great welder and using good wire makes a big difference. Thanks for watching!

[@curtbrown9702]

This machine works GREAT. I wish I had it long ago. Great hobby welder. 1/4 in weld .

[@DIYMyWay]

Yes indeed, Curt! Thanks for watching!

[@davidvonanderseck8649]

As a novice I love the little welder

[@Bostongreenm3.]

Very high quality content! Deserves more subs

[@DIYMyWay]

Thank you very much! I would appreciate any subs you can send my way.

[@jimmccullough1051]

Nice job. I have the same welder, bought it as a learning tool. I am learning to weld with it, doing ok so far. Not as pretty as friends that are professionals, but everything has held up so far.

[@DIYMyWay]

Hi Jim! Yeah, I bought mine a learning tool and for light jobs, but this little welder keeps surprising me with what I can do. I may not ever need a larger one. Thanks for watching!

[@Kyle-ev4fk]

So cool, Thanks for sharing!

[@DIYMyWay]

Thanks for watching!

[@samengler539]

Nice job Martin. It will hold up for you.

[@DIYMyWay]

Thanks, Sam! Fingers crossed!

[@whoanelly737-8]

A man and his machine is a beautiful thing...

[@dwayneloftice2326]

Not bad looking welds at all! Good eye and good control.

[@DIYMyWay]

Thanks, Dwayne!

[@davehoward2791]

I’ve have that same welder for about 2 yrs and love it. I use the same INE wire too and have welded some pretty heavy stuff with it with zero fails. I also have the Titanium Stick 225 to fall back on should the need arise but the Ti 125 keeps doing the job. Great video, thanks! 👍

[@DIYMyWay]

Hi Dave! Yes, the Flux125 and the INE wire work very well together. Do you like the Stick 225? I’ve considered getting it for heavier jobs, but like you I’m finding the Flux125 gets even heavy duty jobs done. Thanks for watching!

[@davehoward2791]

Hi Martin, yes I like the 225 a lot, it’s a powerful welder and you can really expand your skills with it. I got it mainly to weld aluminum and thick steel on ag implements, and so far it’s doing a great job. 👍

[@DIYMyWay]

Thanks, Dave! Good to know.

[@9856CB]

You’re a man after my own heart, only you have property to work and play. I’m 74 and bought my first welder. Only doing flux core, but may go with gas in future. Even the larger welders have to “V” groove for super strength. I do think there’s a Kubota manufacturing flaw with that apparatus. Great job and the KZbin videos have surely replaced the written books of long ago.👍😜

[@DIYMyWay]

You’ll have fun with the welder and you can do so much with one! Kubota didn’t make the backhoe bucket quick connect. BXpanded did and it does indeed have a design flaw. BTW, my fix has held up great so far. I’ve done a lot of digging with the backhoe since I fixed and strengthened it. Thanks for watching!

[@betosgarage]

Great video

[@tractortalkwithgary1271]

Hey Martin, pretty impressive little welder. I am toying with the idea of getting one. It wouldn’t take long to pay for itself at today’s prices. I think that stuff made today like the backhoe may be a bit under specs for the kind of use age that they will get. Something that has that much reach and the power of hydraulics will show the weak points in short order. I like what you did to yours and I would be willing to bet that it will stand up to the test of time. You take really good care of your equipment and are a careful operator . I think you will be fine. Thanks for sharing Martin. See you for the next one Full watch and a thumbs up 👍

[@DIYMyWay]

Hi Gary! You are so right. These powerful little welders pay for themselves quickly. Thanks for the kind words and for watching!

[@kevinashby3784]

Good job

[@channel_saigon]

Amazing video this is so nice

[@phattdaddy63]

Good job Martin. You did yourself a favor by repeating the support on the opposite side. It's a shame BXpander failing x2. I am currently looking into a welder myself. Very promising the 125 tackled the challenge. Our welds look the same, as long as they hold up...they are not wrong! Great video and as always thanks for sharing!!

[@DIYMyWay]

Thank you, Kenny! Yeah, I knew if I didn’t add a support to the unbroken side, it would just be a matter of time before it broke too. Those little inverter welders work amazingly well and are a great investment. Besides, welding is a fun super power to have. Thanks for watching!

[@phattdaddy63]

Does the 125 require gas?

[@DIYMyWay]

No, it doesn’t, which is great. It’s a flux core only welder, which is all I think I want. However, a MIG welder can be set up to use flux core wire so if you want to be able to do MIG with the option to do flux core, get a MIG welder.

[@mrdddeeezzzweldor5039]

A little time spent in maintaining a consistent bead will go a long way toward making a weld you'll want people to see as well as to know that there aren't voids and inclusions to fail...eventually. Considering the care taken in prep, you certainly have the skill capability. Hope it's still holding up.

[@DIYMyWay]

Yes, it’s still holding rock solid after a lot of intense digging and boulder extractions. Thanks for watching!

[@alfredo7615]

They should pay you for the resolution of having a fix for their faulty part. Now they see this and say oh let’s make it thicker or add a welded plate. When I used to work for a box truck company they would pay any employee who creates ideas for fixes on certain issues.

[@tomvonkamecke7136]

Is there no end to your talent Martin!

[@DIYMyWay]

Hi Tom! Yes, yes there is. And I have face-planted against that end on more than one occasion. I just don’t often make videos about those humbling moments. Thanks for watching!

[@GrampiesWorkshop]

How's she goin'? Nice repair Martin. The welds looked pretty good. I'm in awe of your welding skills my friend. I can strike an arc, you can draw a bead with the best of them!!! I sure hope this repair you made holds up and I don't see what it wouldn't. Nice heavy duty support for sure. Take care!!!

[@DIYMyWay]

Thanks, Mike! Well the welds ain’t pretty but they seem to be holding so far and that’s what matters to me. Thanks for watching!

[@loveydovey4u]

His voice is so calming

[@DIYMyWay]

He is pleased that you think so. Thanks for watching!

[@davidwho8215]

You could drill some large holes in your plates to get even more purchase area to strengthen your weld. But it looks to be good.

[@DIYMyWay]

A couple others mentioned the same thing, but it’s too late now. Anywho, it’s been holding up great. Thanks for watching!

[@Vigo327]

So im an automotive mechanic who lives in a place with no rust, so my work-related excuses to weld have been pretty sparse. I have the older non-inverter 90a HF flux core machine that I got in 2009 when they sold for $89. About the only change I've made to it is to upgrade the ground clamp, and to install a contactor so that the wire is only hot when you pull the trigger (yes, it really WAS hot all the time...). I have no welding training, but I have a pretty strong grasp of electricity and that has helped me understand how to push the welder past what it was intended for. The main problem with welding thick material with a weak mig welder is that it takes too long for the welder to heat the workpiece enough to get a puddle, so you end up stacking a bunch of melted mig wire before you get an actual puddle going, which is still better than actually moving and starting your pass believing you are welding when you are mostly depositing loose slag on an unwelded workpiece! I preheat larger pieces before starting now. Nothing serious, just propane or mapp torch. Having the piece already warmed up helps the little welder a lot, especially in the area where the weld is started. I have not welded any tractor-related items yet, but i've been meaning to for a good bit and ive got several projects lined up. One of the first is that I recently got an older B8200 with loader and backhoe that will force me to learn to rebuild cylinders (no big deal i assume, i used to rebuild automatic transmissions so sealing rings in hydraulic systems are.. not unknown to me) AND weld up the damaged bucket. I intend to adapt some other attachments (at least one from BXpanded) to the backhoe, as well as modifying the FEL bucket. So hopefully soon i'll join your little 'using undersized welders on high-stressed tractor components' club as well as having a little Kubota backhoe to play with! Great vid.

[@DIYMyWay]

Sounds like you’ve gotten your money’s worth out of that little HF welder! BTW, I’ve used the backhoe a lot since posting this video and the repair has held up great so far. Thanks for watching!

[@Agustin-jo8mv]

Great job. I'm gonna need a small tractor like that in the near future! Looks like they sell new for about 30k with backhoe and bucket. I hope I can find a good used one for half the price of a new one. haha.

[@DIYMyWay]

Thanks! Good luck on your tractor purchase!

[@elebeu]

Great video. In addition to the other comments on your procedures, I couldn't tell if you ground the mill scale off of your support plates before welding but it is a good idea to grind to clean, bright metal any areas that you intend to weld.

[@DIYMyWay]

Thank you! Yes, I always clean the mill scale off with an angle grinder and wire wheel.

[@gimmefuel7268]

Thank you so much again for this video!! Yours was one of the main reasons that I chose this welder & purchased it recently. I am now kind of playing around with it & trying “not” to blow holes through my practice sheet metal. I was wondering if I could ask you please, if you might have a recommendation for a good setting for approx 18-22 ga sheet metal while using .035 wire. Also I am going to have to weld some nuts onto some broken bolts to free them so if you could steer me in a good direction for that, I would be forever in your debt sir!! Thank you so much for reading this. 😉🙏👍🏻👍🏻

[@DIYMyWay]

Thank you! Glad the video helped you make your decision. I’ve never welded anything thinner than 14 ga so I can’t advise on the sheet metal. And although I haven’t had to weld nuts to broken bolts before, here’s how I’d do it: First, I would remove any rust from the bolt threads and end of the bolt. Then I’d thread the bolt on so as to leave a shallow bowl from the top of the nut to the end of the bolt. I’d set the welder to the thickness of the nut and/or the diameter of the bolt, then weld the end of the bolt and nut together filling the bowl and even let it mound up a bit on to the top of the nut. If the underside of the nut is accessible and the bolt is big enough, I’d put about 4 tack welds around it. Hope this helps and good luck!

[@PaleHorseOutdoors]

Hi Martin! Nice repair work there. I'm sure glad you made this video now because I've been softening up the family business manager about getting a welder. I think this is the video to prove a few things. ;) Thanks again for sharing!

[@DIYMyWay]

Hi David! Thank you, sir! Glad to know this video may help you make your case to “management”! LOL! Thanks for watching!

[@earlyriser8998]

i agree...Santa is bringing a welder if I am a good boy this year

[@01SilveradoLT]

Just a thought but for the support plates you could also drill a hole in the plate and plug weld to the original for extra strength in the middle.

[@jimmywilson1388]

That’s a mean little 15 pound machine…😂 It works good. Everybody that owns one say if there’s broke today they’d go buy a new one… Thanks for sharing your experience.

[@DIYMyWay]

My thoughts exactly. Thanks for watching!

[@577buttfan]

That's we used too say about the black one and this one is loads better😂

[@vincentmamotos9937]

wow that is strong

[@wittelarry1]

I just got one 👍

[@SCouch-cw6je]

Same welder as the century fc90 except different color. I love my century and it burns hotter than my Hobart 140 and welds better. I’ve ran at least 20 roles of Lincoln wire through it and it still weld strong

[@DIYMyWay]

I’ve heard others say the FC90 is the same welder. Anywho, they’re both greater little welders. Thanks for watching!

[@SCouch-cw6je]

@@DIYMyWay I should’ve said the outside appearance are the same. Insides are different. I’ve never used the titanium but really like the fc90

[@jamesp9998]

Awesome video . Glad I made this purchase . Is the backhoe repair still holding up ?

[@DIYMyWay]

Thank you, James! Yes it is. In fact, I put it to the ultimate test a week ago digging out a HUGE rock from the ground. It broke a tooth on the bucket but the quick connector repair is still solid. That little welder is a beast! Thanks for watching!

[@qfdforme]

Nice repair. Consider using plug welds for weld repairs to distribute the load better.

[@DIYMyWay]

Thanks! Good idea with the plug welds.

[@qfdforme]

@@DIYMyWay Consider buying the”Welder’s Handbook” by Richard Finch. Also, pick up a copy of the Metal Fabricators Handbook by Ron Fournier. Both are available on Amazon.

[@DJSCRIP]

Just picked up the titanium flux welding machine from a Black Friday sale. Will this hold an A-Frame Coupler hitch for a trailer for pulling zero turns, mowers ETC…

[@davidolchewsky5365]

Great video! I noted this was the 2nd time the 'quick connect' broke. 1st time I think BXpanded replaced it. Did you weld it this time because they would not replace it a 2nd time? I'm thinking of getting one of these 'quick connect's for my BH77, but am not wondering if I also have to get a HF welder, just in case. You did a great job welding those reinforcements. I don't think it will break there again. I no longer think that is its weakest area due to your great job! Thanks!

[@DIYMyWay]

Thank you, David! I didn’t even ask for a replacement this time, since I figured they’d say no and I knew the next one would break as well. So I just pushed ahead with the repair and reinforcement myself and it is still rock solid. Thanks for your kind words and for watching!

[@RCAFpolarexpress]

Bonsoir Sir 😉👌 Practice make perfect Sir 👌🧐 You did a wise move by doing two more welding passes for better penetration and also adding welding strengh 😉👌💪 These little welder are marvelous 👌😉 The weld bead look is not important, it is the good mixed penetration of the two sides witch give the weld the strength and adding an extra steel plates is sure is stronger and also I do look that you connected the two entry pines holes with that added steel plate so the torsion stress is also transfer further way from the original crack and that what probably cause the crack to happen at the first place 🧐💪 Sir you have to be very very proud of yourself you can fixe it again if any case or other things too 💪🧐👌 Please let keep run your welding for cooling after these heavy welding pass 👌😉👍 I look at the stress when you digging and I do think that side movements and not the up and down movement with the bucket that cause the crack to occur and that was in deed a flaw from the conceivers and that you fixe OUTSTANDINGLY WELL MON AMI 😉👌 Yes that welder did a OUTSTANDING JOB in deed Sir 👌😉 Cheers 🍻

[@DIYMyWay]

Bonsoir Dave! Yes, I felt it important to weld the support plates to the sides of the bushings for extra strength. I think you are right that it is side to side stresses that broke them before. I was really pleased at how the welder kept going on those longer slow passes. It didn’t overheat one time. It packs a lot of power for a 120V welder. Thanks for watching!

[@RCAFpolarexpress]

@@DIYMyWay That is a OUTSTANDING WELDER Sir Cheers 🍻👌😉

[@keithrayeski3147]

I may have to invest in one…seems to be a step up from the central machinery one. Splatter is atrocious with the CM model. Nice job!!

[@DIYMyWay]

Hi Keith! Yep, it’s been a great little welder. Thanks for watching!

[@vduber03]

Awesome repair!!!! Also any updates on if its still holding up?? Cheers

[@DIYMyWay]

Thanks! It’s still rock solid, and that after a LOT of backhoe work. Thanks for watching!

[@vduber03]

@@DIYMyWay awesome!!! Thanks for reply

[@bloop6812]

Didn't see any of the BB's usually associated with flux core welding was it the wire itself or or the nozzle gel spray on the work pieces?

[@DIYMyWay]

The wire takes the credit for the cleaner welds. It is INETUB BA71TGS .030-Inch which I got on Amazon: amzn.to/3PLreec I’ve been really happy with the way this wire welds compared to the starter roll that came with the welder. Thanks for watching!

[@AdamBooner]

this channel is so damn good lol

[@DIYMyWay]

Thank you, Binley! I’m glad you think so!

[@jack902902]

Great excise to experiment! Did your newly engineered quick connect hold up? I imagine it hold up longer than the original did.

[@DIYMyWay]

Thanks! Yes, the quick connect is still holding up. In fact, I recently dug up a HUGE rock that broke a tooth on the backhoe bucket but the quick connect is still rock solid.

[@matthewsims359]

Pretty impressive. I’m not a welder but I admit that I had my doubts. Nice job. I hope it holds up for ya

[@DIYMyWay]

Thanks, Matthew! I gave it another hard workout today and it held up fine.

[@dezertraider]

Thank you,I just got a 125 and its burning holes in every piece of steel i try to weld..Im restoring a old car with rust holes.Cutting out the rust,cleaning the steel for welding,,and adding the patch.It's blowing holes about every place i try to weld. I'm not a welder but been welding many patches with the 90 amp,HF,mic for years.. I played with heat setting to 1- and still burn holes.Raise wire feed still burning holes. I been using 18 gauge mild steel ,should I try a different steel,? could the welder be defective? I just got it and fed up.. I thought it would work better than the 90 amp,the feed and trigger work much better on the 125 than the 90..Any ideas?Thank you

[@DIYMyWay]

Hi Ralph! I’m not a welder either and I’ve only welded thin material a few times, which definitely takes some skill I don’t yet have. The best advice I can give you is to follow the settings guide for 18GA and experiment on scrap pieces. You may have to move faster than you are used. Good luck1

[@summersoldier3311]

Your repair certainly looks durable. A preheat of the part would have helped you burn in the root passes a bit better. Once you started welding, the heat would have been adequate for the lower power welder.

[@DIYMyWay]

Thanks for the tip and for watching!

[@robertblunt9517]

I bought mine today.I gave a hundred and forty seven dollars but I bought a titanium hood and all the accessories i've been playing

[@Chris-5446]

How does this welder compare to the hynade mig140d?

[@barrybebenek8691]

I have this same welder. Can anyone explain to me when to use single pass vs multi pass flux core? I’m newer to this and learned only in this video that there is two different kinds. Thanks. 🇨🇦

[@DIYMyWay]

Hi Barry! I’m no expert but I do know you should use a wire rated for multi pass welds. The wire I was using claims to be and those welds are still holding strong after many brutal backhoe digs that put enormous stress on them. Thanks for stopping by!

[@keithcochran8299]

On the Flux core Welders I've heard than the polarity on the welding gun needs to be negative to have a good weld. DCEN. Is the Titanium 125 DCEN? on the more expensive machines you can manually change the polarity.

[@DIYMyWay]

Hi Keith! I believe it is but I’m not certain. What I can say is it is an amazing welder. The welds I made in this video have held up great and were really put to the test yesterday when I dug up a HUGE rock buried where we needed to plant a tree. In fact, I broke a tooth on the backhoe bucket getting that rock out and wondered if my welds would hold but they did. Thanks for watching!

[@dga5396]

What size braker does this welder take to work properly? Will a 20 Amp. Braker work?

[@DIYMyWay]

Yes. Thanks for watching!

[@larryconover3925]

does the grinding after flux removal add any value other that ascetic ???

[@DIYMyWay]

Just making ugly welds look a little better. Thanks for watching!

[@manuelsalgado8510]

I tried this exact welding unit today, I know nothing about welding, the welds came out nasty , but my worst problem is I can’t really see thru the helmet and I can’t keep the tip on the same spot, any thoughts?

[@DIYMyWay]

Hi Manuel! Assuming you have an auto darkening helmet, you need to adjust it so that you can still see the weld pool once you start. For my helmet, the ideal setting is 10. Also you should watch a lot of videos on flux core welding by experienced welders to learn proper technique, tips and tricks. Good luck and thanks for watching!

[@hamiltoda]

Is it just me, or do I hear the Bob Ross of welding?

[@chrishunt5291]

I'm looking at this welder, what settings did you have it set at.

[@DIYMyWay]

I had wire speed and voltage maxed out since 3/8” steel is supposedly twice as thick as what it’s rated for. However, I have seen other videos and comments from people saying it will weld 3/8” just fine. It seems to be true since the repair job is holding up well after a lot of hard digging with the backhoe. Thanks for watching!