New Here...Want to get into welding for my Harley

[SilverShark96]

Hello! I'm brand new here, and the reason that I'm here is because I've got a recent desire to learn how to weld. I'm a mechanical guy, but this would be my first attempt at welding.

Basically, the reason I got interested is because I have a 1978 Harley Ironhead. And sometimes (a lot of times) welding could make it a lot easier for parts or mounts that are easily available or just nonexistent.

What are the first steps that I should take in learning some basic welding techniques? I don't know squat about which type of welding is best for me, etc. etc. etc.

Thank you in advance for the help!

[specter]

Hi Ya SilverShark96 and Welcome to the Welding Web Family.

My best advice is that if you do not know anything about about welding I wouldn't start learning by welding on a Harley. Doesn't take much to throw off the harmonic balance on a bike. The shaking would break the weld. Always best to leave the Harley welding to a pro that specializes in Bike welding. You best bet would be to start by taking a couple of classes at your local trade school, community college or welding school. Or if you plan on teaching yourself try going to sites like Lincoln, Miller, ESAB, or others and look at the training materials they have on their sites. Then start with some practice welds put the piece in a vise and try breaking it at the weld. By breaking the weld you'll be able to see if you got good penetration. Then next try a couple of easy projects.

As for what kind of welder to get ? Many folks start out with an arc welder but you can also start out with a mig welder.

[SilverShark96]

Ok, thank you for the information! Let me be a little more specific. I won't be welding on a rigid hardtail on my Harley; i.e. I won't put my life on my welds!

With mig welding can you basically weld anything? Why wouldn't everybody just start with mig welding?