newbie needs info on equipment and welding process

[Leonard]

Hi guys, i'm new to this board.
My neighbor gave me a ARC welder for free, he didn't tell me a whole lot about it. Can you guys give me the basic run down on it?
its a Craftsman ARC welder variable amp selection 35-230
and some sticks, 5/64, 3/32, 1/8
http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid129/p26e675c807de828c3e7faff433dc2c48/f7d07e90.jpg
and i would like to fill in these holes on my car.. the holes are .50"x.75". please let me know how to approach it..
http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid129/pc5ae3eecd20f48f636ec72b8ac74d1fa/f7d07e8b.jpg
thanks for the help.

[HWooldridge]

OK machine but wrong one for the job. You need a TIG or wire welder using the proper size electrode. What you have will work for 1/8 and up material but not on sheet metal, especially if you are just getting started.

[Sberry]

Yes, I agree, you will make a mess of it. If you can reach behind clean the back with a scraper, cut some slugs of sheetmetal larger than the holes and JB Weld or a similar product and stick them on. Then body filler the front and refinish. No metal distortion and damage to the surounding area. Go to Auto parts store that specializes in paint supplies. They have all kinds of new products for sheetmetal work that take no welding. They are great for that type of thing.

[Leonard]

thanks for the info..

whats the value of the machine i got?

[HWooldridge]

It's not a bad machine and worth keeping if you got it for free - you might need it someday. Even if you aren't a professional weldor, it's a good skill to have - just like being able to set tile or do electrical work. The machine's value is pure speculation on my part - maybe $100-200 or so. Craftsman is not a normal "welding" brand but was probably made by one of them.

[Sberry]

When you need the machine its priceless. They go for 100 to 150 used, tops, but that one looks really nice.