Can I Use a Flux Core, Gasless MIG Welder for Auto Body Work?

[@philiphartley8823]

I've been using flux core Mig for vehicle repair for twenty years or more and had no problems at all. My advice would be to always make sure to get good quality wire and keep the tips clean. I personally remove the gas shroud from the torch as it's not needed and enables a better view of the weld area. Another great advantage is if welding has to be done outdoors, a gas version is not much use as the gas disperses too easily.

[@LakesideAutobody]

Thanks so much for the tips - you're right about using the gas outside as just a tiny bit of wind = crummy welds.

[@joeanon5788]

I second that emotion. I have a CE 125 also and works great with small /thin materials. I take night weld AWS classes at the local HS Tech school. 12 week course each year when offered. I wish they went year round. I learn something new each year, and my welding improves in leaps and bounds. I have a small home setup also. PlasmaCut 40 Amp, horiz band saw, CE125 FCAW, and a CE 225 SMAW (will also do TIG, but not ready for that yet). Grinders, clamps, etc. I can do a many things with my setup. Very handy.

[@JoeKova01]

Nozzle gel is a must!!!

[@ziemelbriedis]

@@JoeKova01 how?

[@FOOKyourFEELINGS]

I only have a 100 amp one, would this still work?

[@adeh503]

This is a great video... There's a lot of welding snobs out there, but this down to earth video aimed at us hobby guys is perfect, thank you, you've just got another subscriber 👍👍

[@LakesideAutobody]

Thanks for the support - there's no welding snobs in an actual body shop. Never heard one guy brag about how well he could weld - it wasn't even a thing - never even thought about it. Thanks for the support and the sub - feel free to ask any question / any video. Jerry

[@johnmichaeltwist5086]

I have this welder. It needs a DC conversion for negative electrode otherwise it splatters BB's and the quality is not so good. The flux core wire is meant to be used with negative electrode, however this is an AC setup. The conversion would cost additional ~$30 - 50 . I suggest consider seeing the conversion videos before making a decision of this welder. I will convert mine since I've had it for ~10 years, however it may make better sense to by a DC flux welder for someone who is starting out.

[@jimmypopp2695]

@@LakesideAutobody Agreed. I have two cylinder gas welders, six cylinder gas welders and a Miller 140 but I love my little harbor freight for sheet metal work. It hardly if ever blows a hole in anything.

[@LakesideAutobody]

@@jimmypopp2695 That' great to hear - I was really surprised that it actually worked this well. I've always used Miller MIGs and love them but for the price, you can't beat this welder. Thanks for the comment and support :)

[@jimmypopp2695]

@@LakesideAutobody Are you guys in New Jersey?

[@davidiannelli5827]

Super helpful for this beginning welder with a truck project in his future. I’ve been obsessing about the need to get a gas bottle and thanks to your videos, I realize I don’t need one. Your videos are right up my alley for the work I need to do, so thanks for making them!

[@LakesideAutobody]

You're welcome - glad you appreciate them. Just takes a bit of practice and you'll have it. Maybe practice on some 16 gauge metal first - then move to the thinner 20 - 22 gauge for todays cars.

[@John-NeverStopLearning]

I am no TIG,MIG, STICK welder. I purchased the HF TITANIUM Unlimited 200 about 2 years ago. I just finished a mower deck repair. DON’T Be afraid of trying. Patients and some practice will get you a long way.

[@greasemonkeychef]

Great video. I'm currently replacing rusty floor pans in a 1967 Mustang. I'm new to welding so your instructions are exactly what I needed.

[@LakesideAutobody]

That's great to hear. If you have any questions feel free to ask. This seam sealer works well for me. It's like what the factories use on their lap joints and other seams: www.amazon.com/ACDelco-10-2013-Joint-Filler-Compound/dp/B007Q0ZQGK

[@carlcanterbury7091]

I appreciate that your content points to those of us that have the need, but not the expensive tools. It’s nice to see things done with what we might have or for a one off repair. Pleas keep up the good work.

[@LakesideAutobody]

I'm glad you enjoyed it - I will continue to make videos in the same style. Have a great weekend. Jerry

[@gergemall]

Thx Jerry, you've been helping me learn tons. I think this weekend I break out the welder I bought a year plus ago and figure it out SAFELY >

[@gergemall]

Agreed

[@jossuedepalm3549]

This is awesome i have a mig welder and still don't have Co2 so i'm using fluxcore for body work and it works great, good job, God bless you

[@LakesideAutobody]

God bless you too - it's not perfect for everything auto body but it will suffice :)

[@jossuedepalm3549]

Amen! I most deffinetly think so too

[@6lr6ak6]

Man, l don't know how you're using it for car body coz normally you gotta use 0.6 with argon mix

[@LakesideAutobody]

@@6lr6ak6 Gas is easier for sure but just wanted to make a video on this because a lot of folks were asking if it is possible to use flux core for auto body. Have a good weekend :)

[@LakesideAutobody]

@@jossuedepalm3549 Thanks for the comment and support - have a good week end :)

[@boomdawg56]

I bought a similar cheap 125 from Harbor Freight about 15 years ago. Still have it, still use it. I have welded motorcycle frames, exhaust systems, body panels, just about everything you can weld on a car or motorcycle. I had never used a wire feed before purchasing this welder, you are so right about playing with the settings for wire feed and power. I would recommend a flux core welder from HF for any hobbyist. There is no doubt that a Miller or Hobart is a better welder but $200 versus $1500 or $2000 or more. Great video.

[@LakesideAutobody]

Thanks the the input and support Boom Dawg. You're right too about the 200 vs 1500-2000 too. Have a good weekend :)

[@drizler]

I’ve got a real mig And all I’ve ever heard is you can’t weld automotive sheet-metal the flux core. Sure it’s cleaner and a bit nicer but that’s all. Big help with gas welding is if it’s cold out and you’re welding inside you don’t get the fumes issue. If it gets dicey and you’re burning through you can always crash a piece of three-quarter inch copper water pipe and hold that on the back side while you’re welding. It’ll suck up a lot of the heat and keep you from burning through. I keep a piece of flattened pipe hung on the wall for those instances.

[@LakesideAutobody]

Thanks for the tips - good information :)

[@barbarasteed3966]

Carbon block will work as well as alum.

[@jasonbirch1182]

Yeah ive used copper pipe for a "spoon" backer while filling in exhaust pipe that I had split and expanded to go from 2"-2 1/2" . It worked great. I was able to bridge the gap then stitch it together. I just got a Tig machine ordered, can't wait to start getting into it.

[@glock21guy]

It depends. These were lap welds. Butt welds are about impossible to not blow through. Well, you have to be a lot more careful and short with the bursts anyway, or use a backer.

[@LakesideAutobody]

@@glock21guy Here's a video that may help with that. kzbin.info/www/bejne/n6vRlGx5eNmNpNk

[@smokerise]

You can use any process...the finished product will depend on how good you are with a grinder.

[@MissionRestomod]

Smoke Rise a grinder, a hammer, a dolly, a torch and wet rag to quench... Its just a lot more work to get the same results as a better welding rig. Of course it can be done but will take longer and take more effort.

[@smokerise]

@@MissionRestomod I agree, for the most part...if I was welding thin gauge metals flux wouldn't be my first choice but if that's all I had I could get it done. A lot of diy'ers might have a little 110 buzz box in their shed, with flux wire... Even with solid wire, with a better machine, you would still be using everything you mentioned. It all depends on if you want to do it yourself, or pay someone like you, or me to do it.

[@rocketman702]

Um, No!!

[@smokerise]

@@rocketman702 whatever man

[@daxinventor3542]

I used a WeldPro 155 for the first time today. I am repairing my rocker panels on my truck. I am saving about $4,000 by doing it myself. I have been watching Lakeside Autobody videos on KZbin at night learning different sheet metal patch panel techniques. I think I am learning how to make my own sheet metal patch panels thanks to these videos. Thanks Lakeside Autobody. I am grateful to you.

[@LakesideAutobody]

You're welcome Dax - feel free to ask any ?s as you go - I get to them 1-2 times a day :)

[@MrTheHillfolk]

No doubt man, I was here for the bodywork and filler type stuff for a project I'm working on. The bodywork is semi done for now,and I've saved a couple of rust cars from death with lots of welding patches. To me the patching and rust repair isn't bad and I can do pretty good at it but I'll still watch these vids for pointers and refreshers. I'm definitely more confident with this stuff than getting body lines straight and all.

[@michaelwagner8798]

I am doing this exact type of work right now and am very new to it. Thank you so much for the video

[@LakesideAutobody]

You are very welcome - glad you could use it :)

[@elmarko9051]

Thank you KZbin algorithm for pulling up this excellent video. Lots of gems in this video - technique, proof of method, real-world results. Hearty thumbs-up. Got some unibody I want to weld. Thinking that the flux-core is the way to go. Initially thought stick - but too steep a learning curve and I won't be welding all the time.

[@brianst.laurent2165]

I started out with an older version of this same flux mig welder then upgraded to the titanium 125 flux mig welder (also sold at harbor freight) and man, what a difference. I like the titanium 125 SO MUCH MORE. You get more control of the heat (not just “high” and “low”) and that make for much better welds.

[@johnb5640]

So true!! Glad I went with the Titanium!! Not only for the reasons you mentioned,but it also welds in DC as opposed to AC which is so much smoother!!! I love that little machine!! Definitely worth the extra $90 or so!!!

[@LakesideAutobody]

Thanks for the information - Happy New Year :)

[@johnb5640]

@@LakesideAutobody Happy New Year to you as well! Thanks for the vids keep em coming!!

[@oscarmunoz1918]

Hd§h

[@terrybi]

My flux core welder doesn't have that guide chart so I quickly wrote the recommended settings down, thanks for showing that.

[@LakesideAutobody]

Great. I'm glad I included that. Have a good weekend :)

[@jessejohnson159]

'IF' that splatter protection spray is used, most the BB's will brush right off. Lacquer thinner will remove the remainder of the spray for any paining that you properly prepare for with sanding, etc.

[@kdb7670]

This is exactly the answer I needed. I have a lot of body work fixing rust on my 65 mustang and complete beginner welder here. I feel confident I can make the crusty broad look good again!!

[@LakesideAutobody]

Good to hear - feel free to ask ?s - 😊

[@stevenstevens9191]

thank you! I was just going off the table on the welder and doing near minimum wire feed speed of about 2....was blasting straight through and figured faster speed was for thicker metal per the chart....now I know different thanks again

[@LakesideAutobody]

You're welcome :)

[@rocketman702]

low voltage and high wire speed keeps the weld pool cooler.

[@genesssisss]

I been using flux core welding on body work fo like 16 years.. I love this welding machines

[@LakesideAutobody]

I think they work just fine too :)

[@bjornlillpers498]

Thanks for this, now I feel a little more comfortable getting a non-gas welder. I really can't afford one with gas, they're at least 5 times more expensive where I live. Doing a full restoration of my childhood's Volvo wagon and it needs some welding, and I've always wanted to learn to do it myself.

[@jarmen1105]

I taught myself through KZbin videos. Just welded a roof onto a VW Bus. Used a combination of gas and flux core. I like the flux core for tight areas as you can hit it from some distance. But gas better with thin metal areas.

[@tonywall8991]

I've been using a gasless mig for years on cars and trucks, never had a worry.

[@aalabbasi]

Metal is metal, so welding with a flux core is no problem. The people telling you not to use flux core are saying so because the chemicals in the flux could react with the paint. If you're doing chassis welding or floor welding, you should be fine.

[@marcomilioli1934]

How about a body panel?

[@n3rdst0rm]

So if you sandblast the area you need to weld/plan on repainting this shouldn't be an issue.

[@Migman2020]

NO that is not the reason.. flux core wire will leave a THIN layer of slag after each weld.. that will mean defects and the last thing you want is you welding a chassis back up is weld defects.. as i mentioned in a comment above.. welders like this piss me off so much because at the end of the day your cow boy botch jobs are putting people in danger in time on the roads.. Flux wire DOES work but only if you use it correctly and on the correct applications. I use flux wire my self at work but never ever like this..

[@aidenog7380]

@@Migman2020 is it good for doing cab corners?

[@bobanmilisavljevic7857]

@@Migman2020 🤠

[@dalehammond1749]

I did MIG muffler system welding for the big 3 back in the 60's to 1980. We ran consistent welds around the pipes and I still get nightmares about that hollow sound when I goofed and burned through a pipe. I just ordered a flux core welder for hobby fun around the house. So I'm back into welding after about 40 years. Body work on a classic pickup is possible. You used a rapid spot weld technique we never used but it worked well for you. Thanks

[@LakesideAutobody]

You're welcome Dale - good luck on your classic PU - let me know if you have any ?s - I get to them 1-2 times a day :)

[@nearheaven5311]

Very helpful demonstration. I was close to purchasing a mig but the simplicity of fluxcore just made more sense to me. Since I would be using it outside more, it was also a more practical decision.I went with harbor freights' titanium flux core and am very satisfied with it.

[@LakesideAutobody]

Good to hear - thanks for the information. Have a great weekend :)

[@pidancer789]

Did you do auto body work with it like welding a frame

[@rlewis1946]

Thanks for your reply. I’ve in several posts, that using “high quality” flux core wire is important to get good results. Have you used, HF 030 in. E71T-GS Flux Core Welding Wire, with good results? Thanks? Roy Lewis Buffalo, NY

[@johnsonbar5022]

For someone like me who is just learning this stuff, you did and do, and outstanding job explaining the fundamentals of this stuff. Thank you.

[@LakesideAutobody]

You're welcome JB - have a great weekend :)

[@jjtrucker5950]

get a mig if you plan to do lots of sheet metal repair.

[@SamFBM]

used this type of cheap welder for my mr2 sills. did pretty good although i was a noob i managed to make it pass MOT (uk version of inspection but way more strict)

[@Eddiedoherty22]

Exactly the comment I was looking for. My Sils are rotten. Thanks.

[@SamTheBalloonMan]

I have this same welder and my 1950 Chevy sedan delivery needs some repairs. Now I feel confident that this machine can do what I need it to do!

[@leonardgilbreath9004]

Flex core is what I've been using for all my body welds and it about 90% butt welds with the only exceptions is welding in the floor plans.

[@2Small2Fail]

Do you mean for the floor pans you use lap welds?

[@leonardgilbreath9004]

@@2Small2Fail I don't lap any body panels there all butt welded and the floor pans are done the same if I can just use weld through primers if you have to lap anywhere.

[@taxslave5766]

I bought from Princess Auto the 125A inverter flux welder, and after watching a lot of welding videos especially your videos I feel more confident and relaxed about cutting the body up on my van and welding it back together again? lol. Thanks.

[@LakesideAutobody]

You're welcome - glad you appreciate the content :)

[@WisdomInExperience]

I was looking for this and your video really helped a lot. Nice simple and straightforward.

[@LakesideAutobody]

Glad it helped - have a good week :)

[@superdragon9293]

I just did the quarter panels on a 66 Mustang Coupe and i must say the job came out fantastic and i have had that same welder for bout a year now. My regular thing is doing exhaust systems and i gotta say this welder has paid for itself 10xs over...😊

[@LakesideAutobody]

Thanks for your input Super D - thanks for watching too :)

[@lostjalopygarage8150]

Thanks for the video. Very encouraging! I think my 1950 Plymouth has 18 gauge sheet metal, so I feel confidant to try patching the floor with my flux core. If that works I'll do the rockers.

[@LakesideAutobody]

That's a good looking car - I just looked it up. I think it'll work fine with the 18 gauge. Let me know how it goes. Have a great weekend:)

[@milotorres6894]

Spread tacks on patches fill in being careful not to put too much heat in one spot to a avoid warping metal use air to keep cool wire stickout to fill any blow outs make sure undercoating is cleaned up on weld zone or it will flame up on you wire wheels small ones work great.

[@LakesideAutobody]

@@milotorres6894 Good advice - thanks :)

[@vincemajestyk9497]

I think it works perfectly well. The key is the cleaning and prep afterwards. You have the right idea using a wire wheel, grinder and sandblasting to clean it up. Same as a MIG weld after the flux is all cleaned off. I used to braze small panels in a long time ago, but that's just as dirty or worse than flux core. Wire quality is key in flux core. I used flux core for the first time making a wye pipe for my car a while back. Before that I only used MIG or gas. Nice job!

[@LakesideAutobody]

Thanks for you input Vince - good tips. I appreciate the comment. Have a good week :)

[@CA-pv5ie]

Fantastic Jerry, love your videos - keep them coming!

[@LakesideAutobody]

Thanks, glad you enjoyed it - have a good weekend :)

[@nickking1510]

I used the exact same welder mine was dc but different name on it here in Ontario Canada $98 on sale to replace cab corners and rockers on 2011 f150 . What I did do was buy best quality fluxcore wire I could get spotted the rockers and cab corners till I only had 2 inch between spots then welded the 2 inches between took a new wire brush to the welds had to add a little sheet metal to fill some areas. I cleaned all panels welds with lacquer thinners then ground welds sanded metal and panels skim coated welds with hi quality body filler finished applied metal pre to bare metal primed with self etching primer then primer filler sealer and colour coat . Drilled 1/2 access holes in sill pillars stayed several times with light oil then heavier Amber oil undercoat

[@tedbponycars3014]

Love mine. Restored a 68 fastback used it a lot

[@LakesideAutobody]

Thanks for the input - have a great week :)

[@tedbponycars3014]

Randall brumfield seems inevitable so cleanliness is the best prevention

[@guntherhoffman7421]

My Lincoln electric flux welder is 13 years old and just last year i changed the gun setup (which was very cheap) because of the trigger. Been using it mostly on Autobody and very happy with it!

[@LakesideAutobody]

How did you change the gun set up? Did you get a new gun or fix yours up. The gun on the my Miller MIG needs some work :)

[@patrickchristie82]

Thank you for doing this.

[@LakesideAutobody]

You're welcome - hope it helped a bit :)

[@yamahaxs6501]

My dad could literally weld anything, and I learned the trade from him. Saying you can't do bodywork with flux core(like most people say) comes down to skill and setting up your machine properly. Is it the easiest process to do panel work? No, but it can be done. I prefer TIG for body panels, but it's slow. My garage doesn't have 220/240, so I'm stuck with a little FCAW machine for now, and it's capable for anything I do in my garage. I'm about to shorten my c10, so we'll see how it works out, but I'm sure it will be just fine. Great video!

[@LakesideAutobody]

Thanks for the input Frank - well said. Glad you liked the video my friend :)

[@charlescarabott7692]

So much for those "experts" that say it cant be done. And thats with a cheap old style min/max switch type welder. Guess it will be much better with the inverter igbt welders that have much better current and voltage control. I am buying a helivite 182 from the italian amazon which goes down to 10amp settings up to 150amps and its only about €300 equivilent to about the same in $

[@GypsyHunter232UK]

Drop the shroud u do not need it for flux cored

[@jonathanbelanger6574]

@@GypsyHunter232UK your correct but I think in this video he's only using it to lean up against the metal he's welding

Great production value for a great tutorial. Just successfully welded with mine. Fought poor welding material the first two days.

[@LakesideAutobody]

Nice. That's good to hear. Have a good week :)

[@1951Roy]

Thanks, was very helpful.

[@LakesideAutobody]

Glad it helped - have a good weekend :)

[@justinsmith847]

After watching this video I bought my own harbor freight flux 125 welder just arrived today and I plan on doing my cab corners and rocker panels in my 86 chevy c10 I appreciate this video wish me luck lol this will be my first time welding so I'm gonna practice on some scraps like you did first to get a hang of it then onto the truck

[@LakesideAutobody]

Have fun! Ask me any questions you have as you go along - you can do it for sure. Each time, you'll get better and better. Jerry

[@justinsmith847]

@@LakesideAutobody thanks I appreciate that yeah I'll take my time and it should come out ok lol

[@wkw4095]

Me: "Hello auto body shop, Take a look at my truck, how much to repair 2 rusted wheel wells and 2 rocker panels." auto body: $13,000 plus..... Me at Home depot: ok lets grab a the Lincoln Electric flux core welder, roll of .035 and a roll of .030, passive helmet, some sheet metal and get cracking on the basics. I have 2 wheel well panels sitting in my garage waiting to be installed and for my skills to improve. Lap welding it will be and I will buy a cheap flange tool ;)

[@LakesideAutobody]

You don't even have to flange it. Weld it into place, lightly grind the welds, Knock it down and fill. See these vids - kzbin.info/aero/PLOP9eoG14-I8mto72e0di1Q_URvGUlYfQ

[@ralfrisberg8009]

I have a cheap flux core mig welder and it's ten years old now and have never let me down once!

[@LakesideAutobody]

That's good to hear - thanks for your comment :)

[@tracyrenko4171]

Thanks now I know I can fix my 2006 2500 rockers

[@LakesideAutobody]

You're welcome - let me know how it goes. Ask ?s along the way if you want - I answer every day - every comment :)

[@ShivJG13]

Thanks for this. I'm looking to buy a project vehicle that needs some welding doing, but I've never mig welded in my life (I'm trying to learn tig for custom motorcycle builds though). All my welding will be done outdoors, and I have a limited budget, so this video has reassured me that it can be done, and I don't have to spend a fortune on a machine, and even more on bottles of gas.

[@LakesideAutobody]

Here's what you'll be doing when welding a patch if that's your project. It's still fine to this day - kzbin.info/www/bejne/fmmak2SuoayinNk

[@ShivJG13]

@@LakesideAutobody thank you. Yeah I think there’s going to be lots of that. 😄

[@victoroneill7924]

It would be easier with a flux core tip.

[@drizler]

Or just yank it off and go bare. That’s what I do with no issues . You can actually see what you’re doing.

[@JimYeats]

@@drizler "Or just yank it off and go bare". Phrasing.

[@skinlab4239]

@@drizler She usually has me for 18+ after I do that.

[@KStewart-th4sk]

@@skinlab4239 Seconds, minutes? Please explain

[@leighbratcher1998]

Jerry, after watching this video when you first put it out I did some more research and am getting a Harbor Freight Titanium 125 flux welder for Christmas. I have a small garage and not much room. As I have said before I really enjoy your videos. Thanks for doing this video, helped me a lot.

[@LakesideAutobody]

You're welcome - Merry Christmas and have fun putting together your shop. Keep me up to date on how your doing with the welder. Jerry

[@leighbratcher1998]

@@LakesideAutobody Merry Christmas to you also.

[@aidenog7380]

@@LakesideAutobody can I use this welder outside

[@LakesideAutobody]

@@aidenog7380 Yes - wind doesn't affect it as it is flux core. MIG doesn't work outside 'cause it blows the gas away.

[@williamgrissom9022]

I bought that Harbor Freight flux-wire welder about 15 years ago for $89 on sale. Fixed many things with it. I even welded 3/8" steel trailer shackles to make tow-bar brackets for my M-B cars so I can flat-tow them. I've done a bit of auto body repair, mostly replacing rusted spots in a trunk and floor pans. I should have lap-welded like you show. when butting up the metal, it is too easy to get burn-thrus, especially in areas where the panel was thinned by rust pits. My biggest use was using old trampoline galvanized steel as curved roof beams, welded to 1.25" EMT and metal fence posts to make a carport on the cheap. MIG would be easier welding, but then need to buy gas bottles, which is hard to justify for the few times I weld.

[@LakesideAutobody]

It's a good little welder for sure. Thanks for the comment William - love to hear stories like yours - have a good Thanksgiving my friend :)

[@sabergermd]

The overlapping metal probably dissipates a lot of heat preventing bum through. Most videos I've seen trying to use anything thicker than .023 wire with butt joints are a disaster.

[@narancs5]

If you are welding with gasless flux you can take off the nozzle for better visibility. They even sell FCAW caps which fit in place of the nozzle so you dont accidentally spark an arc with the tip instead of the wire when working in tight spaces.

[@LakesideAutobody]

Thanks for the tip :)

[@pussycat6469]

Thanks man i waz welding my body work wrong .im gunna use your techniques. I have gasless .and successful welded my 46 year old kingswood.hq with gasless.saved money .learnt .and now im super excited toi fix some rust too make the old girl pretty .thanks mate .

[@LakesideAutobody]

That's great to hear - I will be uploading a video that uses this same welder to repair a lower fender rust hole - you may get something out of that video too. Jerry

[@pussycat6469]

@@LakesideAutobody and the wire brush can go in storage .im getting that wire wheel .its awesome

[@LakesideAutobody]

@@pussycat6469 Good idea!

[@charlesloomis2224]

Thanks for the demonstration. I’m staring a car restoration project. I’m a novice. My confidence just increased.

[@LakesideAutobody]

With a little trial and error it'll work out. Try different angles too if you begin to blow through i.e. not pointing down so much but at a 35 to 45 degree angle to the work piece. It doesn't force the wire and weld through thus making a hole.

[@tgtg2945]

Hi great vid thanks. Have learnt alot from here. I am a youtube and book taught novice. I have done some rust repairs on minibus and nissan roadcar, over last four year's. My machine is dual purpose hobby, 130amp Clarke in the UK. My original setup was fluxcore 0.9mm and machine could take upto 5 kilo reels. The cleanup head ache of flux core is a pain and acess into recessed joints was a nightmare. I would blow many holes may times. Due to the thicker wire required more amperage volts. It served a great purpose as a learning curve and that it allowed me to weld at home under the sky in still and windy uk climate. Adding a co2 bottle and regulator not hobby but full size allowed me to accept 0.6mm wire which I believe is 0.23 This gave cleaner welds and less intense clean up by far. My welds did look better and blow through was far less, as also my experience was more. I used solely cO2 as I was only doing sheet metal. Do the research argon mix is better but not absolutely required. The naughty bit is that I used inverted 2 kilo fire extinguisher bottles to great effect. You knew when the gas co2 was out as the welds were disgusting. Haha. I intend to buy a big welding CO2 bottle as I am very happy with the setup. I also keep spare fluxcore reels for extra windy and emergency use. I recommend that anyone considering flux core to buy a dual purpose machine that can switch polarity, also enabling use for aluminium and stainless. as also can add gas shielding when you are ready too. All the best and thanks. Hope this helps.

[@LakesideAutobody]

@@tgtg2945 Thanks for the information. I'm sure it'll help some folks out :)

[@itssupraman6956]

About to start replacing floor pans in an 81 z28 I just picked up. Wasn’t sure on using my harbor freight 125 but it’s always done everything else I needed and now I know it’ll do just fine. Thanks for posting👍

[@LakesideAutobody]

You're welcome :)

[@keithfrisell4271]

The welding wire from Italy is a flux core but with a lot less splatter and I would dip the welder tip in anti splatter gel . You should try cooking spray to see if it helps with splatter ? I haven't tried that . What a great channel you have and I have learned a lot from your videos. Thanks again and stay safe. God Bless America !

[@LakesideAutobody]

Thanks for the tips and thanks for the support. I'm glad you enjoy the channel - have a good weekend :)

[@mentals555]

This looks very very similar to the ones you can buy from the grocery store Lidl here in Germany. Their store brand is "Parkside".

[@LakesideAutobody]

How's life in Germany? Seems like a beautiful country :)

[@michaelpalmisano6788]

Thanks I needed that. Got a flux core welder for early xmas gift from my dad because I told him I needed a welder to fix the floor in my van. Looked around online to find everyone saying you can't use flux welder on auto body panels An I got really discouraged . I'm not looking for perfection on this project, I just need to be able to walk in the back of the van without falling through lol. Currently a big rushed hole. Thanks for the video !

[@LakesideAutobody]

You're welcome :)

[@keithfrisell4271]

This was a awesome video ! You should do some repairs with it . Most DYI don't have big bucks for a welder . I like the idea of no gas especially in windy areas .thanks and stay safe.

[@LakesideAutobody]

Thanks, I'll do a rust repair video with this welder in the near future. Have a great weekend :)

[@stevefuller1779]

Still needs the vapour from the flux to protect the weld no good in the wind.

[@PC_CERTIFIED]

I really appreciate it in all serious. I have to do rocker panels on a 2002 Buick century and now I don't have to go out and spend a bunch for a welder. Harbor freight it is. thank you

[@LakesideAutobody]

You're welcome. No worries about spatter as it comes off real quick with a wire wheel or hand grinder/sander. You have to clean up any type of weld any way before moving on to the next stage in body work :)

[@byronwoolfrey1039]

I have one just like it, had a Lincoln stick for years and that made it hard to get used to this wire feed and there is much splatter. I was going to sell it but decided to keep at it and now I use it all the time. For any new ones, if you find it impossible to use, remember it's the same as getting to carnagi hall , practice practice practice. Oh, I found my speed setting best FOR ME THAT IS between 5 and 6. Some people think this is both gas and flux core, it is not, it is flux core only so no need to wonder about polarity

[@LakesideAutobody]

I agree - thanks for your input :)

[@leejameshunter8992]

Used it since 1990, literally welded and restored thousands of Minis using it. Don't get me wrong using gas and solid wire gives a far better looking weld, but when using flux core practice makes perfect & it is possible to get a decent looking weld.

[@LakesideAutobody]

You're right - thanks for your input :)

[@timothyroe5020]

I am a novice and was thinking of going this way for some small repairs on restorations. Great instruction and I think with some practice I could do what I want thanks to you. You just got a new subscriber. Looking forward to viewing the rest of your content.

[@LakesideAutobody]

I know you can with some practice. Thanks for the support and the sub. Glad they help you out - have a good week :)

[@michaelshakib7777]

Finally a realistic video showing welding on thin gauge steel.

[@LakesideAutobody]

Thanks for the comment Michael - glad you liked it :)

[@pbpyro5546]

Thanks for this video. I bought this welder to fix a patch in my old camaro’s floor pan.

[@LakesideAutobody]

Good luck - let me know how it goes :)

[@mlieser1230]

I've used the flux core for body work. Even used it to spot weld. Used the lowest heat setting. Just had to wire wheel the welds. After grinding and filler it came out good.

[@LakesideAutobody]

Great to hear - thanks for you opinion on the topic :)

[@pbcycleworks]

Ok, first off we don't drag the puddle we push the puddle. Stop giving people wrong information. You are a hack at best, I wouldn't let you anywhere near my welders or jobs. My customers would never come back.

[@The_R-n-I_Guy]

I take the nozzle off to get a better view of the weld. There's no gas, so it's not needed. Also I just make a few tacks a few inches apart, clean it and let it cool before stitching it together. Always welding small areas, spaced apart, and cleaning and cooling in between passes

[@alcocklake]

I welder inner and outer rockers on my 2000 Sierra PU with a Miller weldPak 100 flux core and .035 wire... worked fine, though I'll try .030 wire next time... great video..thanks from Kenora NW Ontario Canada

[@LakesideAutobody]

That's good to hear. Sound nice up there in Kenora - I'll have to vacation there one day :)

[@LakesideAutobody]

@@joechimento7934 Here's a few videos that may help out: kzbin.info/www/bejne/rYPPYoScoNd1m7s ** kzbin.info/www/bejne/f2m5h5-Pha6cnaM ** kzbin.info/www/bejne/aKeogYSforxobJY

[@alcocklake]

@@joechimento7934 mine were pretty well shot to he77... I used a disc grinder with a cutting wheel to cut above the rust, well into the good metal and then ground, sanding disced the good material so I could weld trough some ho;es I custom drilled in the new rockers.... in a few placed, particularly the inner rocker I used pop rivets to draw the metal together to get a tight fit. Then primer, bondo and paint... I had nothing to lose :)

[@alcocklake]

the patch panels were just sacrificial material...I didn't try too hard to use them where not needed..I got mine from LKQ in Winnipeg Mb Canada but LKQ is N America wide..cost about $35 a side in 22 g steel

[@skkfor]

Major thanks for the vid and info. I just bought that exact welder to fix my "ram rot" wheel arches. Your instruction is exactly what I was looking for!!

[@LakesideAutobody]

You're welcome = you're right about those Rams - they rust fast. Really, every truck seems to rust fast over the wheels, cab corners, rockers...

[@wildsmooth9201]

This video is perfect. I've been looking for this answer for weeks.

[@LakesideAutobody]

Thanks - glad it helped you out :)

[@georgeclarke1183]

Great content in this video was deciding weather to purchase a gas mig welder or the gasless version for my car bodywork repairs the gasless version will be perfect for my bodywork repairs keep up doing these great videos

[@LakesideAutobody]

Gasless is a bit harder but with some practice you'll be just fine. A nice little flux core welder can be purchased for right around 99 bucks at HF on sale. Thanks for the support and comment George :)

[@fishnfreak18]

This is what I needed to see. I need to do the cab corners on my 87 Chevrolet and I have a little Lincoln wire feed set up at the house that’s running flux. I hate to go out and buy a tank and gas just to do the cab corners.

[@LakesideAutobody]

Glad it helped - ask ?s if you need - Jerry

[@fishnfreak18]

@@LakesideAutobody Thanks so much Jerry.

[@lawncuttingplusdelta]

Nice demo , I am currently taking a stab at welding in a rear frame rail on my nova and it worked pretty well … looking forward to getting after the bottom rear quarters , and I will stitch weld just like you did here

[@LakesideAutobody]

Good luck. Remember though MIG (gas) is always a ton easier. If you get good with flux, you'll be a pro instantly with MIG (gas).

[@lawncuttingplusdelta]

Coming from you that’s big. 👍🏻….. there are a few others that show it works , and it’s practical .. no tanks to drag around and it gets job done

[@remiel3315]

i did some heavier work on an 05 Subaru for the part that connects the unibody to the pinch weld w/ 16ga steel and a older hobart flux core welder, it worked pretty good

[@LakesideAutobody]

Nice - that's going to last quite a long time :)

[@19cruella82]

Thanks alot. Goin into the garage tonight to dail in my settings

[@LakesideAutobody]

Takes a bit of trial and error :)

[@AndysDogHouse]

WOW. I am impressed. Now you know what you are doing when it comes to welding. When I first decided to restore my first car, I bought a lincoln 110-volt welder and I was blowing through like crazy. So I bought the gas add-on and everything was fine from that point on. Thanks for sharing.👍👍🍁

[@LakesideAutobody]

Yes - gas is nice. You're welcome and thanks for the support. Those Lincolns are nice welders :)

[@crpth1]

I hope meanwhile you learned that you were burning trough. Not because it was flux core but because you didn´t learn how to do it. ;-)

[@SAXONWARLORD1000AD]

I DID 32 PATCH PANELS IN MY 77 JEEP 2 YEARS AGO , NO PROBLEM , TOOK THE SHROUD OFF FOR BETTER VISIBILITY , I THINK I HAD THE CRAPPIER HF MACHINE AND IT WORKED FINE WITH LINCOLN WIRE (important to get better wire than HF wire)

[@LakesideAutobody]

That's true Saxon - my friend says the Lincoln wire works better.

[@loktom4068]

Finally someone like you show us the way.👍

[@LakesideAutobody]

Glad you enjoyed the video. Have a good weekend and thanks for watching :)

[@recumbentcountry]

don't forget to make sure of the polarity, mine came set up for gas, not flux core even though it was not sold with the hoses.

[@1000186ful]

How did you check that Doug Morency

[@recumbentcountry]

@@1000186ful inside the welder there is 2 connectors for the welding cables as discussed here. the Positive should be the clamp cable and the negative to the welding wire.

[@1000186ful]

@@recumbentcountry ok ill check that thanks

[@recumbentcountry]

@@1000186ful did you find the connectors.

[@dukeallen432]

Dig intro music. Kinda fits with welding. Have gas but great to watch your technique. Learned how to shorten wire without using wire cutters. Save me some time. Great vids. Cheers.

[@LakesideAutobody]

Thanks - glad you enjoyed it. Have a great weekend:)

[@CosmynFire]

I own a flux core welder like this and works fine.For me it is a little bit tricky to use this type of welder because i use a stick welder more often(my first type of welding machine).I think this is caused by the lack of practice. I did a few rust repairs with a inverter stick welder using a 1.6,2.0 and 2.5mm rods at 10 to 30 amps to avoid blowing through and it turned out well.The hot start and arc force features helped me a lot. No need to buy an expensive MIG welder for this type of work.

[@LakesideAutobody]

Thanks for the tip - have a good weekend :)

[@greensfarmland]

Thanks for this video, I recently bought a flux core welder, because most the work I will do with it is outside, and random places on the property. I also have a old bronco 2 that will need body work, so I was hoping I could use that as well. As always appreciate your videos, still learning a lot from ya.

[@LakesideAutobody]

Glad to hear it FDS - those Bronco II's are getting rare :)

[@greensfarmland]

@@LakesideAutobody That ain't no joke. Thank God there is enough solid pieces left to bring this one back around.

[@LakesideAutobody]

@@greensfarmland 👍

[@britjamaine9229]

I have welded a lot of bodywork with fluxcore. All my welding is outside and with the constant breeze the one time I used gas the welds were such a pain. I got the titanium fluxcore welder from HF and it works really well for cheap. It put a smile back on my face. My mig was trash. The new one is like 11lbs. and doesn’t pop my breaker.

[@angryyankee9184]

I had that welder. The Titanium Flux 125 they sell is like $70 more and works WAY better.

[@LakesideAutobody]

That's what I hear - thanks for the input :)

[@johnnyrice2531]

I have that exact welder and rarely if ever use the min setting. I have welded up to 5/8" plate and had no problems. Yes it was multiple passes but it worked

[@LakesideAutobody]

It's a fine welder for the price - thanks for your input Johnny Rice. I like that name, "Johnny Rice"

[@BruceWayne-hf4kn]

Just purchased my first flux core welder! Thanks for the info, it was quite helpful! 👊

[@LakesideAutobody]

That's great to hear. Let me know if you have any questions as you try it out :)

[@Mikefngarage]

For lap welding in sheet metal repairs the flux core works just fine. butt welding is a bit harder. I totally recommend gas because it is much easier when you need to butt weld. You uses what you have. If all you have money for is a flux unit. that is what you use. then you correct what you need with filler. Never overcomplicate the process. Filler is OK and will last for years weather it is on 1/16 an inch thick or 1/4 inch thick. just the same.

[@LakesideAutobody]

Great tips Mike - I appreciate your input. Good to hear it from a solid body man like yourself.

[@MrAllan9]

Used Flux core in my body shop for years, never had a problem, and didn't have to drag around those bottles.

[@LakesideAutobody]

Good to hear - thanks for your input :)

[@brysontrotman5865]

Thank you for the video. I was feeling pretty defeated after my first attempt at a patch panel the other day. Now I know it is possible and I just need to fix the guy behind the gun!

[@LakesideAutobody]

It takes a bit of practice with flux core - MIG (gas) is much easier but more $.

[@joeanon5788]

Also the beauty of the CE125 is that not only is it cheap in price, it also takes 10 pound spools of wire. Remember that this machine is AC output only. With 1/8" steel (10ga.) I run it around a speed of 3.5 - 5 and on MAX. I don't have any use for thinner steel, typically. Any thicker, and I use my CE225 SMAW, which I vary electrode sizes from 1/16" 6013, 3/32" 6013, 3/32" and 1/8" 7018. With the 1/16" 6013 I run around 40 amps. Have fun, control the puddle, and make your next weld better than your last.

[@LakesideAutobody]

Thanks for your input Joe - Merry Christmas and Happy New Year :)

[@oscarvillarreal8951]

Can you weld a cars body with Arc Welding wire as well?

[@LakesideAutobody]

I haven't done it myself but have seen a few videos on YT about it :)

[@oscarvillarreal8951]

@@LakesideAutobody I've seen them do the mufflers but I haven't seen the body. I'm about to look for it. Thanks man 👍

[@oddguyamaar9191]

Great i appreciate the video i was really thinking on getting myself a cheap welder to fix some metal under the floor of my old car this was indeed very helpful

[@LakesideAutobody]

You're welcome 🍗🥧😊

[@KFRogers263]

Thanks! I've been watching your vids as I'm going to undertake a repair I probably going to fail at. Turns out, I have the older 90A version of that welder, which I'm upgrading to be DC. It looks like it will probably be plenty!

[@LakesideAutobody]

You're welcome - feel free to ask ?s along the way. You won't fail either 💪

[@GypsyHunter232UK]

You can also weld in flux cored with no shroud as it gives u better view of the arc. I dumped my shroud as the gas shield is produced at arc source. Try it.

[@LakesideAutobody]

Thanks - I'll give it a try - have a good week :)

[@dinosshed]

The flux core works well with more stick out than gas shielded solid mig. Makes all the difference to have the correct polarity as well.

[@LakesideAutobody]

Thanks for the tips :)

[@papahajek5383]

@@LakesideAutobody The HF welder is AC, no polarity. Shallow angle can reduce burn thru . You're not building a pressure vessel, but you are doing a good job.

[@ricardocenteno375]

You are an awesome teacher mr.

[@LakesideAutobody]

Thanks Ricardo :)

[@Dokkado]

Thanks bro, you've helped me decide on the fluxcore.

[@LakesideAutobody]

You're welcome - let me know if you have ?s

[@TrainDriverRob]

Nice one Squire, has given me a bit more confidence with my Draper 100A flux core welder, I’ve scavenged a Snap-On tool chest with a rotten bottom, looking to patch it up, hopefully.

[@LakesideAutobody]

Very cool - can't beat fixing up an old Snap-On box. Nice project - let me know how it goes for you :)

[@FOOKyourFEELINGS]

I know it's a year late..... How did you get on? Mines also a 100 amp

[@porroh869]

I use 0.8 fluxcore on bodywork with good penetration. The correct settings and wire speed make the difference for me 👍

[@LakesideAutobody]

Thanks for the commenting and the tips

[@gergemall]

Thank you Jerry ,another great video for folks .

[@LakesideAutobody]

Thanks 👍

[@Keck_YT]

lap welding was of big benefit here. If you are butt welding, you cannot be anywhere near as aggressive with the welder. Great showcase of what can be done with fluxcore

[@LakesideAutobody]

Body shops lap weld patch panels for many good reasons. The biggest being all sail panels where the quarter meets the roof were always lap welded and filled - lasted forever and no one knew it was there :)

[@432b86ed]

Specific and straight to the point. Thanks

[@LakesideAutobody]

You're welcome Zakk :)