Best starter welding project?

[patm1313]

I just recently learned how to weld. I have a large shop, and I want to take on a project that I can put my welding to a good use. I would like to build something with an engine in it. So far I've heard people say that I should build a go cart. Any othe suggestions?

[Stone_Elvis]

start with a welding table. you'll need something to weld on.

[patm1313]

Originally Posted by Stone_Elvis

start with a welding table. you'll need something to weld on.

I already built one with a 1/4" steel plate as the surface.

Can you think of anything with an engine?

[Broccoli1]

Barstool racer
Go kart
Sand rail

[mudbugone]

Mini-Chopper..... Kinda like this... http://www.baronbob.com/kikker-hardknock.htm I see they started using a 200cc engine now too.. You could copy the basics and use a trashed MC of any type for parts...just build a frame to suit.

[SWells]

Mini bike
Mini Chopper
just make sure your skills and equipment is up to par for the job. You do not want a joint to break at 30mph.

[patm1313]

How about some ideas for non-engine projects? I like the ideas so far.

[Broccoli1]

http://www.millerwelds.com/interests/projects/

[mudbugone]

If you want to build a chopper or mini-chopper---- Do some research http://chopperbuilders.net/neatstuff/index.html best information on the www

They have plans for a frame jig--- great first project(safe & you won't get killed)---when you get done with it you can always sell it..

[SWells]

What do you need around the shop, house or yard? Think of some thing you can use afterwards....do you have a welder cart?

[kbnit]

I'm with SWells,

Every new welder's first welding job should be a cart for the welding machine.

[patm1313]

I think I'm going with the table design on http://www.millerwelds.com/interests...welding-table/, do you think the 3/8' steel plate could be cut with an acetylene torch rather than a plasma cutter? With that design, what is the point of the plasma grate?

[patm1313]

Also, what are some good projects under a $100 budget?

[tanglediver]

I'm sorely tempted to inform you that torch cutting that thick metal is not possible...but it is!! The grate is meant to support the material being cut, while allowing slag to fall through. It works with most flame/plasma cutting systems.

[Craig in Denver]

Originally Posted by patm1313

Do you think the 3/8' steel plate could be cut with an acetylene torch rather than a plasma cutter?

Yes. Source: Modern Welding by Althouse-Turnquist-Bowditch-Bowditch

[Reebs]

Welding Cart
Beer/Pop can crusher
chop saw stand
4x6 band saw cart
Rack for stock
stand for grinding wheel

[Rojodiablo]

Originally Posted by Craig in Denver

Yes. Source: Modern Welding by Althouse-Turnquist-Bowditch-Bowditch

Wow, that's a thick block of steel!!!

[Craig in Denver]

Originally Posted by Rojodiablo

Wow, that's a thick block of steel!!!

It's one of my two favorite photos. This is the other one. It's done by O/A heating and allowing to cool, NO cutting or welding. Source: The Procedure Handbook of Arc Welding by The Lincoln Electric Company. (The Bible)

[goodoleboy]

How about a log splitter? Easy to find parts to make em at nrothern tool or harborfreight..and can be sold easily if you dont split wood.These are pics of homeade units..Total cost to build with new engine is around $1000 or cheaper if you can make the hydro tanks and find a used hydro cylinder for the ram.This is best of best both worlds wheels and engine!!!!Go build one!

[patm1313]

Originally Posted by tanglediver

I'm sorely tempted to inform you that torch cutting that thick metal is not possible...but it is!! The grate is meant to support the material being cut, while allowing slag to fall through. It works with most flame/plasma cutting systems.

But then what is stopping the flame/plasma torch from cutting through the grate?

[patm1313]

Originally Posted by goodoleboy

How about a log splitter? Easy to find parts to make em at nrothern tool or harborfreight..and can be sold easily if you dont split wood.These are pics of homeade units..Total cost to build with new engine is around $1000 or cheaper if you can make the hydro tanks and find a used hydro cylinder for the ram.This is best of best both worlds wheels and engine!!!!Go build one!

I can't say I have the use for one . I'm stuck in suburbia, so there's no logs for me to split, and I wouldn't want to make one just to sell.

[mudbugone]

What's the basket for on the side of that log splitter? It has steering and a rearend.... Self-propelled? Interesting design.

[tresi]

Originally Posted by patm1313

But then what is stopping the flame/plasma torch from cutting through the grate?

The preheat doesn't travel through to the grate. it will get a bit nicked up but it will last for years, Kinda like if you try to flame cut through 2 pieces of metal. the second piece doesn't cut.

[goodoleboy]

Originally Posted by mudbugone

What's the basket for on the side of that log splitter? It has steering and a rearend.... Self-propelled? Interesting design.

I found that one on lawnsite.com, unsure what the wheel was for or axle but it was a clean example to showoff.I will snap a pics of my FIL ugly one but has a boom with graple hooks and it can lift about 600lbs easy.
But it is damm ugly.

[Skwerly]

I agree on the custom welding cart, myself. I have to keep my welder outside because I don't have a garage as of yet. I keep it in a steel, locked cabinet at the time, but I am going to build a locking, covered cart for it so I don't have to drag it out EVERY time I want to use it.

Use the forum search and check out a couple of the welding carts users here have made - some top-notch work!