No choice in these Democrat states... nobody is allowed to touch an aftermarket exhaust anymore here or get faced with a 35k epa fine. So I'm either allowed to let it leak or diy it and hope for the best. Most people are letting theirs leak for a couple years I'd imagine. The smog is way worse now anywhow... 🤦♂️
@@misterbulger chances of getting fined is slim to none, also it sounds like you aren't searching hard enough to find someone to work on your modified exhaust.
Pretty good tips. I've had a lot of experience in this situation. Try just going straight and not weaving. Give it a good second or two with each bead (without blowing holes obviously) but don't let it cool all the way off in between pulses. There's no need to wire brush it in between pulses. Just stop for a second, watch the glow of the bead die down, and before you lose site of it in the darkness of your hood hit it again. Over and over until you're done. You'll get a much better "bead" look. Overlap them a little like you were but keep going with the bead until you have to rotate the pipe. Good luck!
"People never want to be part of the process, but they want to be part of the outcome. The process is where you figure out who's worth being part of the outcome.." Great video bro!
I've only got a little over a year with welding experience, and obviously watched this to learn what to do or not do, what I'm doing right or wrong etc... and I know I'm pretty ok. Nice clean welds are common. Anyway, this is a really good way to start welding, I know a few pros who stick to this or a similar method. I personally lower the temperature so that I can weld faster and with longer lengths without burning holes into the steel. If your temperature is already at the lowest possible and you're having hole problems, just dot weld until you finish the job, don't risk wasting time, effort and money trying to be faster with a long string of weld. I'm probably forgetting some tips I've been given and have learned, so if anyone has any questions I'll try my best to answer as accurately as possible
So, good/great video, ive tried for years to weld exhaust ( cost to have done $$$), here is what ive discovered, "modern" pipe from big box stores has an "aluminumized" coating on them for corrosion, 25+ yrs ago it was naked steel, you would see it with flash rust on the shelves, the "aluminized" coating is messing with your welds, a little sand paper application and its mostly gone and easier to weld, your blow throughs are somewhat normal for flux core, thats why "most" shops braze the pipe instead of weld, also part of those $$$ for a shop to do, your video is helpful and good, thanks for that, wish YT had been around when I started, for what it is your video is extremely helpful and makes people less scared to try it at home, which is a good thing, way too much heres $ and ill pick it up now days, thanks for the great vid
Is it just me or did I feel like you were talking to me /about me the entire time😂 I’m literally sitting here laughing with a giant smirk on my face like this guy must know who I am
@@TPVPRO not hard at all. Especially if you don't insist on Harbor Freight crap. And a simple can of anti spatter spray works wonders. Oh, and it helps to leave ego behind, and use the best tools for the job...that usually arent at Harbor Freight! 👊🏾🤣🤣🤣
If punching through, you are dwelling too long. Either move along the seam faster (in short puddle jumps), or zig-zag on each side of the seam to spread out the heat. (It also helps to have a machine with continuously-variable heating dial instead of a toggle switch - where LOW is still too hot.) Try rotating the pipe on a wide metal V-channel to move along the seam. (Or, place inside a slightly wider pipe.) For convenience, clamp the ground lead to the V-channel metal (or outer pipe). Try a longer stick-out (3/8"-1/2"). It preheats wire/flux more than the base, and is generally better. For flux-core, DC negative is much better than AC (although a mix of both can be ideal).
Probably the best advice from all vids ive watched, going slow and cleaning after every short blip seems to be a good trick. Ive got an exhaust to try and fix but i remember totally failing with thin pipe years ago with a stick welder. Thanks really helpful 😄👍😎
I am about to get one from Amazon and this video helped a lot! I will be welding some catless exhaust system so it doesnt have to be pretty and this is much better than paying 500$ to someone.Thank you!
I've learned (through welding 25-30# of flux core wire) that the weld puddle has holes because the torch was stopped too quickly before the weld puddle was hot enough to properly build up.
After 15 years welding at work finally bought a Titanium 125 flux welder from harbor freight. No problem welding exhaust. Assuming it was you lack of experience or knowledge not the welder.
Mind blowing tip: If you spray the work area with non-stick cooking spray the splatter won’t stick. I found this tip on RUclips and it actually works. 👍😉😇
Thanks for taking a little time to make this video. I have had no time to practice and several times I need something welded. Out in the sticks so..we make it work.
Thank you for that! Struggling with my own system at the moment. No option for some old cars but build your own. I shall take your suggestions in hand!
Your main problem is not enough stick out and using a welder with only a high and low settings. Been flux core welding for years even on 20gauge sheet metal. Give yourself a minimum of 3/8" of stick out. The results will amaze you
Weld.com has a video where they bust myths about flux core, they're not bad. They definitely have their place. Growing up on a farm, they were great for field repairs with a generator when getting back to the shop wasn't an option. A lot easier to pack up, don't worry about how windy it is, and don't need a massive generator, everything fit on the rack of the atv.
I like the way you describe your weding skills. I suck at welding too but im not scared to try and would rather try my ass off and fail than not try at all
thanks for the honest video. Have been thinking of doing flux core welding for exhaust but after seeing this maybe not doing that but using more conventional style. but looks like fun project!
Honestly, is having the most beautiful beads really important with exhaust welding? As long as you get good penetration without a bunch of blow throughs, I don't see how it is inferior in any way with a few spatters. It's just exhaust after-all. I say all that because I think you did a great job and I think it's great for guys that need to build something at home on a vehicle that doesn't need a super fancy shop job. Just cheap, strong, and effective.
Exactly! Who is going to crawl under your car (assuming you don't have a show car) and look at your weld job on your exhaust? (If you hear someone in the dark of night say, "What a shitty welding job!" Then you will need a new cat tomorrow. In that case, I guess a shitty welding job is a good burglar alarm.)
I actually think it came out pretty good for what you’re working with... flux core never looks great and it’s difficult to see while welding. Also it has a different sound than regular gas mig welding so you can’t really make it should sound like “sizzling bacon”. I think your settings were at least in the ballpark
I put a H-pipe and dual exhaust on my car with a HF flux core welder. I had better luck with the .035 wire but maybe just because it was a better brand. Also took the nozzle off, helped a little. But really the hardest part was welding on the ground with no lift. The welds look like 💩 but it's together and no major leaks.
Your getting worn holes because your not holding the welder on it long enough for it to fill the hold. The biggest thing about welding is reading the puddle. The more you weld the more you will understand what I mean
First, my dude the anti spatter repels metal so spraying it on your weld surface is going to give you fusion issues. Second, you need to lower the gun angle so that you are just barely aiming into the weld pool. To much will cause you to hit your slag wall and to little will cause holes. You can go downhill with flux....I ran downhill on a harbor freight $99 special set on high voltage at 7 wire feed. ...i did both sides of a true dual exhaust and it sounds great. You're getting the flattening and holes on your tacks from running the flux like a mig ...increase your stick out to 1/2 to an inch.
I was super scared about doing some exhaust work because welding rigs are like the price of my car but ty so much for introducing me to that little thing cheers!
All these experts in here were given huge money from dad to buy big Miller welders and beards. This is a 110v flux core welder, you can't drag beads on exhaust tubing with these things they suck ass. This man is doing God's work.
I figured out how to lay down decent beads on the super thin pipe. Just try to help the budget guys / girls that are listening thanks for the support good sir. ruclips.net/video/62moqa9dICw/видео.html
I love to watch welding videos, the problem you're having is due to stopping, next time instead of going downwards out of the puddle, go upwards into the puddle, if you're welder is turned completely down you either need to reduce your feed speed or move faster through the puddle, the flux cores stuff makes a gas shroud around the puddle so you need to carry on and also point the fan at you rather than pulling / pushing air around the puddle, I'm still a total beginner, thicker stuff is super easy to get right, but the thinner stuff is a nightmare to get set up for and get right, loved the video
I've been watching a lot of these videos lately of buying and using the $100 flux welder , im thinking im gonna purchase one for my Chinese scooters exhaust that keeps breaking off my header on my gy6 150cc scooter keeps breaking I'm needing to have it weld reinforce I know if I go to a local shop they will charge me more then what this welder would cost and if I keep buying replacement headers at $30 a pop well I'll be paying way more in the long run ! So I believe my best option is buy me a flux core welder and a welding helmet shield learn how to fix my own exhuast issues and future problems that might happen down the road thanks for making this video it was a good tutorial video 😁👍
I started with a big 220 Lincoln stick welder angle iron and box tubing also frame work on my car. I used a fluxcore welder .30 wire 2 heat stage high / low and wire speed was adjustable. Now I did exhaust on low heat overlap back and forth motion about 1 inch welds never had a issue blowing through the pipe. Never used gloves on a 110 either not needed unless you have sensitive skin. I also use the nozzle on my welder.
I would consider buying and learning on one of these for a couple of projects. The main one being I want to remove my catalytic converters on my "100% offroad only" truck and build a frame for a gas powered fan for a hot air balloon.
Your welds look slightly better than mine but my experience was reguardless of how good my weld looked i would have pinholes in it all the time when i pressure tested it.
I've done a bit of flux core gasless mig welding in my day, probably ran 100 lbs of wire the last 5 years. I did the exhaust on my truck recently and a few of the things you say are pretty inaccurate. I can run a solid bead for 1/4 of a 2.5" exhaust pipe without blowing through. The key is to turn the voltage and wire speed down, if it's still blowing holes then you need to move a little quicker while running the bead. Now, when it comes to this type of welding it's important to drag the nozzle not push, whenever stopping a weld you should drag the puddle back into the bead a little to keep from getting pits in the bead, sometimes even blowing through the edges of sheets. Most importantly, clean the surface and practice, practice, practice.
That weld looks good to me. I have never welded but my friend has with a cheap harbor freight transformer Flux core welder and his looked far worse and always leaked no matter how many times he tried to redo it.
I have flux core welded exhuast b4 , im no welder but i turned my machine way down so not much heat and moved the torch fairly quickly kept the weld puddle moving had pope welded all way round in about 4 welds, only had to stop to turn exhust round and never burned thru, cheapest welder i could buy to outtta lidl, was like 90 euro and 4 euro for roll of wire, cant beat that
My 250a MiG welder has infinite adjustments for heat, and even with flux-core, I can turn down the heat low enough to continuously weld something thin like muffler pipe or rusty metal without burning through the steel.
Yeah, making flux core look good is a challenge. But it's just like anything else. The more you do it, the better you'll get. Now to be clear, I'm NOT a professional welder. I'm a professional mechanic by trade. But just a little advice about flux core welding. You want to make sure you get a machine that has the correct polarity. Flux core needs to be run electrode negative. When used in that polarity you won't have so much spatter to clean up and you'll have much better welds. These really cheap machines, such as the black Harbor Freight flux core machines, are wired electrode positive. Which is why they have problems. I know it sucks, but try to save up and spend that extra 75 or $100 to get a machine that is wired correctly. It's well worth it in the long run. But if you can't, I do understand that very well. Just get some scrap and start laying beads down. Do that for as long as it takes for you to get used to the machine and can lay down some welds that will actually hold. It just takes practice. Much respect for you TPV!! For being big enough to readdress this and for giving folks good advice!! You're The Man Brother!!! Y'all be safe out there!!🤠😎 Oh and I gives a f@#$ that this is three years old!!
Brother, smart work cleaning and not welding over the slag and splatter. However- tack, tack, tack and more tack! make the job into a lot of little short sections. Fill in a small section between tacks-then rotate the entire pipe to well the opposite section. This gives you a little more time to weld so you arent punching through. Take your time. Even when you clean it with that brush you are having friction between 2 metal surfaces. Friction=heat. Too much heat = holes. Furthermore, f you continue welding it in one shot on one side, the metal will begin to pull and flex-so if you are trying to make specific angles etc, your finished product will be off. Also. The anti rust stuff is an aluminized coating. Dont want to breath it in when vaporized. Just my 2 cents. Great vid ! 🍻
We`ve all had to start from somewhere. Good on you to just dig in and just learn from your own mistakes. This kind of weld job is what i`ve always referred to as: "Birdshit Welding" Keep on welding... you`ll get there someday!
You can do it for sure, it just takes longer with the flux if you want it to look decent. I have another video on anti-spatter it required less cleanup. I think with a little more practice the welds can look cleaner.
Well done, I'm using a Harbor Freight and it's really ugly patching all of the burnout holes. Not to mention at the lowest settings and the pipe is thin and old 1 3/4" stock on a scissor lift.
I appreciate that you wanted to help new DIY welders BUT, your technique is wrong. I welded for Kawasaki welding and with thin metal you just need to move your welder with quick up down movement when welding a round piece and just tack it twice. Forget that spray and buy a small canister of tip dip to dunk you welder tip. That will ensure you don't get stuck to your item. Almost like Oxy/Ac welding but not circles. As you go up & down just get lower faster and it won't look like a billion tacks and take all day cleaning every tack before you do the next.!! Just keep it on low power on that thin stuff and use a clamp after two quick racks. Then put your weld line out off the bench and you just make quick up down strokes as the metal will run and you only need it to go 50% into the metal. This was painful to watch as you kept welding in one spot each time. Just keep the tip moving down and then half way back into previous circle as any good weld looks like little puddles melting into the next one like a wave. I wanted so badly to stop watching so I'm glad you fast forwarded to show finished welding after first few. Welding is not about tacking it is to create a little Lava run in waves so not side to side just let your weld drop down to next area then halfway back into the one you just left above and don't stop moving until you can't reach metal on the curve. That pipe only needs three weld runs to make the whole way around. Ignore the splatter until your completely done. Then if you have a dremel tool or Sander/ Buffer put on a 150 grit or higher preferred sand pad and give it a quick swipe to nock off any junk. If it is not going to be seen up under the vehicle exaust then it doesn't have to be pretty but MUST BE AIR TIGHT.!!!! If you just keep racking it all round your likely to have a few pin holes that will cause premature rust and "burn through" from engine exaust which is why if you have a hole some where and getting putt,putt, putt sound but pipe is sturdy except that spot then you just sand it or wire brush it and seal or fill the small spot. It is fast cheap for self or customer in a pinch who can't afford $250 for a new pipe. As long as your up front about you just patching it with a tiny throw away piece of pipe metal and not jack them you just might give them the confidence to let you replace it 6 months or a year later. If they can pass EPA test from no leak if you live in such a state. I have a similar inexpensive welder and was looking for something else when this page caught my eye so wanted to see if there was somet new technique to learn. I am in pain for you.! Try my suggestion down and halfway back, down halfway back. Your sure to improve the look & strength of your welds. In a few months of practice on any random metal you can find you will look like a Pro..! Good Luck. Welders are always in demand. I've done Mig, Tig, Acetylene, & Arc. I dislike using Arc sticks. When those little self feeders came out it was great for every DIYer. Just be aware of combustibles nearby. And have a great time learning a new skill. Trust me...I'm an OLD Guy. lol. I've already made most of my mistakes. You know, Wife, House, Kids (Triplets)... but the dog still loves me at least. I just need these 21 yr old girls to go back to college Dorms so I can get some peace. Damn Covid... I'm sure I have a few more mistakes ahead of me too. Wait, this isn't the Therapy forum. Oops.
Man that Lincoln flux core sounds a lot better than my cheezy harbor freight flux core. Never can get that thing to weld right. I feel like it should be able to weld an exhaust just fine, but cant get it. No matter the wire tension, or speed or high/low. No idea why it wont work ha. The welds just break off. They dont penetrate the metal at all.
I can make flux core welds look like it was welded with a regular mig all day even on exhaust. If your welding thinker metal to thinner then alway put the heat more into the thicker metal rather then the thin. You will blow less holes through it.
I'm pretty sure no matter what type of welder it is if you're punching holes through the material you probably have too big of a gap or your heat is turned up too high for the material you would think if you turn down the heat a little bit and turn up the feed you should be able to successfully weld a straight line but maybe I've been doing it wrong
This is a pretty late .. but I would recommend just getting a mig hardwire set up. I have the Lincoln with the flux core / mig combo. Welded a jeep frame with the flux core, plan to do my trucks exhaust with the mig. Flux core is exactly like stick welding. Runs hot as hell etc. just a thought, it’ll look a lot better and be a lot less work.
Been using it even with old pipes no cleaning if you get the heat right. Over 15 years I’ve gone thru five harbor freight welders they cheap. Set it on hi and control your speed about 1.5 to 2 max no need to spot weld like that.
@@TPVPRO just seen the video good job. I’ll leave my comment on just so other people can see it. Keep it up I’m subscribed to you and will continue to like your videos.
InShould I pay 150 for my flex pipe from my car exhaust to be cut off and weld a new one or should I buy a 125 flex welder and learn myself and do it myself. They both about the same price
I have learnt through a long process of trial and error that this is the way to weld thin steel with a cheap flux core welder. I was hoping for a revelation that I was doing it wrong from this video but hey ho. I don't bother with ant-spatter, just use a flap wheel on clean up. The newer DC flux core welders look the way to go but they are not cheap enough yet to make the change - and I need to find someone to buy my AC machine first :( .
I have a Lincoln flux machine with option for co2, I paid about 400 for it and it’s not all that worth it to me. We use the ln-25 suitcases at work to weld kilns and I like them a lot better.
I use an Esab Rebel that does flux core or gas, I can’t really say I’ve had any problems using flux core in fact it suits me better being outside most of the time, nothing worse using gas on a breezy day.
ruclips.net/video/62moqa9dICw/видео.html 👈👈 Updated How to Flux Core Weld Exhaust video.
You cant knock him. He got it done at home. Most people would of paid 600 bucks and wasted a day waiting for their car 😂😂😂 Good job buddy.
Right I learning
Honestly sometimes it’s better to pay someone else. Than get some shit stuck in your eye lol
@@streetlegalbuilds7644 change your name cuz you ain’t building shit..
No choice in these Democrat states... nobody is allowed to touch an aftermarket exhaust anymore here or get faced with a 35k epa fine. So I'm either allowed to let it leak or diy it and hope for the best. Most people are letting theirs leak for a couple years I'd imagine. The smog is way worse now anywhow... 🤦♂️
@@misterbulger chances of getting fined is slim to none, also it sounds like you aren't searching hard enough to find someone to work on your modified exhaust.
Pretty good tips. I've had a lot of experience in this situation. Try just going straight and not weaving. Give it a good second or two with each bead (without blowing holes obviously) but don't let it cool all the way off in between pulses. There's no need to wire brush it in between pulses. Just stop for a second, watch the glow of the bead die down, and before you lose site of it in the darkness of your hood hit it again. Over and over until you're done. You'll get a much better "bead" look. Overlap them a little like you were but keep going with the bead until you have to rotate the pipe. Good luck!
I probably and up having to read this comment.
Exactly my method.
gonna try this for sure thanks for the advice
Thank you for these tips
"People never want to be part of the process, but they want to be part of the outcome. The process is where you figure out who's worth being part of the outcome.." Great video bro!
VERY TRUE INDEED
Through process, Wisdom is formed.
Salute
We all quietly watch this knowing we all have been there. Love the video, so make some more!
I've only got a little over a year with welding experience, and obviously watched this to learn what to do or not do, what I'm doing right or wrong etc... and I know I'm pretty ok. Nice clean welds are common. Anyway, this is a really good way to start welding, I know a few pros who stick to this or a similar method. I personally lower the temperature so that I can weld faster and with longer lengths without burning holes into the steel. If your temperature is already at the lowest possible and you're having hole problems, just dot weld until you finish the job, don't risk wasting time, effort and money trying to be faster with a long string of weld. I'm probably forgetting some tips I've been given and have learned, so if anyone has any questions I'll try my best to answer as accurately as possible
So, good/great video, ive tried for years to weld exhaust ( cost to have done $$$), here is what ive discovered, "modern" pipe from big box stores has an "aluminumized" coating on them for corrosion, 25+ yrs ago it was naked steel, you would see it with flash rust on the shelves, the "aluminized" coating is messing with your welds, a little sand paper application and its mostly gone and easier to weld, your blow throughs are somewhat normal for flux core, thats why "most" shops braze the pipe instead of weld, also part of those $$$ for a shop to do, your video is helpful and good, thanks for that, wish YT had been around when I started, for what it is your video is extremely helpful and makes people less scared to try it at home, which is a good thing, way too much heres $ and ill pick it up now days, thanks for the great vid
“Works way better than tryna cut shit with a grinder” i felt that one🤣😭
Just weld the damn thing and quit playing with it like it’s a peter.
ruclips.net/video/c3GS0rySl0c/видео.html
Nathan Dew no one care kek
Haha i died
You try dragging a bead with a 110A welder.
Right. Lets see yours.
Is it just me or did I feel like you were talking to me /about me the entire time😂
I’m literally sitting here laughing with a giant smirk on my face like this guy must know who I am
Welding with flux core isn't bad when you know what you're doing. 🤷♂️
Welded my exhaust for my car, first time using flux core. I have to admit however, my welds turned out way better then a lot of these guys on youtube.
@@zerodegrees8 Prove it.. ruclips.net/video/62moqa9dICw/видео.html 😁
@@TPVPRO not hard at all. Especially if you don't insist on Harbor Freight crap. And a simple can of anti spatter spray works wonders. Oh, and it helps to leave ego behind, and use the best tools for the job...that usually arent at Harbor Freight! 👊🏾🤣🤣🤣
If punching through, you are dwelling too long. Either move along the seam faster (in short puddle jumps), or zig-zag on each side of the seam to spread out the heat. (It also helps to have a machine with continuously-variable heating dial instead of a toggle switch - where LOW is still too hot.)
Try rotating the pipe on a wide metal V-channel to move along the seam. (Or, place inside a slightly wider pipe.) For convenience, clamp the ground lead to the V-channel metal (or outer pipe).
Try a longer stick-out (3/8"-1/2"). It preheats wire/flux more than the base, and is generally better.
For flux-core, DC negative is much better than AC (although a mix of both can be ideal).
ruclips.net/video/c3GS0rySl0c/видео.html
You did very good actually with a flux core welder . I give you props 👏🏼👏🏼🤌🏼
Probably the best advice from all vids ive watched, going slow and cleaning after every short blip seems to be a good trick. Ive got an exhaust to try and fix but i remember totally failing with thin pipe years ago with a stick welder. Thanks really helpful 😄👍😎
Unlike some other videos, there was a lot of useful information in there. Thanks!
ruclips.net/video/62moqa9dICw/видео.html
I am about to get one from Amazon and this video helped a lot! I will be welding some catless exhaust system so it doesnt have to be pretty and this is much better than paying 500$ to someone.Thank you!
I've learned (through welding 25-30# of flux core wire) that the weld puddle has holes because the torch was stopped too quickly before the weld puddle was hot enough to properly build up.
It’s all about prep. Doing the best with what you have. That’s built custom at its finest.
Kudos to you for making an effort.
Great vid
After 15 years welding at work finally bought a Titanium 125 flux welder from harbor freight. No problem welding exhaust. Assuming it was you lack of experience or knowledge not the welder.
Mind blowing tip: If you spray the work area with non-stick cooking spray the splatter won’t stick. I found this tip on RUclips and it actually works. 👍😉😇
I'm going to have to give that a try.
This is a joke right? The oil in a weld will spit like crazy
@@davidludwig4286 nope "pam non stick spray" works
Bro this is ridiculous but props to you for actually doing it.
Thanks for taking a little time to make this video. I have had no time to practice and several times I need something welded.
Out in the sticks so..we make it work.
Thank you for that! Struggling with my own system at the moment. No option for some old cars but build your own. I shall take your suggestions in hand!
Your main problem is not enough stick out and using a welder with only a high and low settings. Been flux core welding for years even on 20gauge sheet metal. Give yourself a minimum of 3/8" of stick out. The results will amaze you
I don't why you put your welding skills down ? That exhaust pipe weld job passes my inspection. Give yourself an A+ for your effort !!
I’ve never used a flux core welder but after watching this I’m positive i never will haha
Good decision! 😂
Joe Simpson flux core isn't that good for thin metals but for thicker metals it's great and simple to use. It's probably the best to learn first imo
@@rsmithmedia3287 Joe Can weld really good. He is just giving me a hard time.
@@rsmithmedia3287 I completely disagree, welding with a proper hardwire machine is 1000% easier
Weld.com has a video where they bust myths about flux core, they're not bad. They definitely have their place. Growing up on a farm, they were great for field repairs with a generator when getting back to the shop wasn't an option. A lot easier to pack up, don't worry about how windy it is, and don't need a massive generator, everything fit on the rack of the atv.
You don’t need to stop and clean just keep welding and clean after, this is going to take a freaking week to complete
for real!! buddy would finish his exhaust weeks later
Slag will go into the weld. Not sure if the flux in the wire is enough to prevent corrosion.
The weld needs to cool anyways
You absolutely need to clean the slag off or your weld will be contaminated and corrode. Wire wheel on a drill or a grinder makes quick work of it
Another budget hot rot builder - building out of his 1 car garage, we're a dying breed. A for effort and building it yourself!
I like the way you describe your weding skills. I suck at welding too but im not scared to try and would rather try my ass off and fail than not try at all
thanks for the honest video. Have been thinking of doing flux core welding for exhaust but after seeing this maybe not doing that but using more conventional style. but looks like fun project!
Honestly, is having the most beautiful beads really important with exhaust welding? As long as you get good penetration without a bunch of blow throughs, I don't see how it is inferior in any way with a few spatters. It's just exhaust after-all. I say all that because I think you did a great job and I think it's great for guys that need to build something at home on a vehicle that doesn't need a super fancy shop job. Just cheap, strong, and effective.
Exactly! Who is going to crawl under your car (assuming you don't have a show car) and look at your weld job on your exhaust? (If you hear someone in the dark of night say, "What a shitty welding job!" Then you will need a new cat tomorrow. In that case, I guess a shitty welding job is a good burglar alarm.)
@@rickb2267 exactly!
Give me an OX/AC Torch and a closet hanger any day
i looked it up in my dictionary and, goggles is next to godliness, cleanliness is nowhere near it.
You did not look then. www.dictionary.com/browse/cleanliness-is-next-to-godliness
I actually think it came out pretty good for what you’re working with... flux core never looks great and it’s difficult to see while welding. Also it has a different sound than regular gas mig welding so you can’t really make it should sound like “sizzling bacon”. I think your settings were at least in the ballpark
I put a H-pipe and dual exhaust on my car with a HF flux core welder. I had better luck with the .035 wire but maybe just because it was a better brand. Also took the nozzle off, helped a little. But really the hardest part was welding on the ground with no lift. The welds look like 💩 but it's together and no major leaks.
Your getting worn holes because your not holding the welder on it long enough for it to fill the hold. The biggest thing about welding is reading the puddle. The more you weld the more you will understand what I mean
I’m not the only one that fabs exhaust with fluxcore after all.
First, my dude the anti spatter repels metal so spraying it on your weld surface is going to give you fusion issues. Second, you need to lower the gun angle so that you are just barely aiming into the weld pool. To much will cause you to hit your slag wall and to little will cause holes. You can go downhill with flux....I ran downhill on a harbor freight $99 special set on high voltage at 7 wire feed. ...i did both sides of a true dual exhaust and it sounds great. You're getting the flattening and holes on your tacks from running the flux like a mig
...increase your stick out to 1/2 to an inch.
Soapy water sprayed on work piece is the best anti spat. Use it every day! Keep working at it. Flux core sucks but it sticks shit together!!
Slow and steady wins the race 👌🏻
Nothing grinding and painting can’t fix 🤙🤙
a grinder and paint make a welder what he aint
Thanks for the video I haven't elded in over 10 years I learned a little in autonomy school but I'm not an auto body worker
Great video! Looking forward to getting into welding for my exhaust. Beats using epoxy, clamps, and wraps!!
I was super scared about doing some exhaust work because welding rigs are like the price of my car but ty so much for introducing me to that little thing cheers!
All these experts in here were given huge money from dad to buy big Miller welders and beards. This is a 110v flux core welder, you can't drag beads on exhaust tubing with these things they suck ass. This man is doing God's work.
I figured out how to lay down decent beads on the super thin pipe. Just try to help the budget guys / girls that are listening thanks for the support good sir. ruclips.net/video/62moqa9dICw/видео.html
@@TPVPRO You definitely have helped me improve!
I love to watch welding videos, the problem you're having is due to stopping, next time instead of going downwards out of the puddle, go upwards into the puddle, if you're welder is turned completely down you either need to reduce your feed speed or move faster through the puddle, the flux cores stuff makes a gas shroud around the puddle so you need to carry on and also point the fan at you rather than pulling / pushing air around the puddle, I'm still a total beginner, thicker stuff is super easy to get right, but the thinner stuff is a nightmare to get set up for and get right, loved the video
the one from everything I know flux core is supposed to be dragged. Not pushed. You can push mig all day. Not flux core.
I've been watching a lot of these videos lately of buying and using the $100 flux welder , im thinking im gonna purchase one for my Chinese scooters exhaust that keeps breaking off my header on my gy6 150cc scooter keeps breaking I'm needing to have it weld reinforce I know if I go to a local shop they will charge me more then what this welder would cost and if I keep buying replacement headers at $30 a pop well I'll be paying way more in the long run ! So I believe my best option is buy me a flux core welder and a welding helmet shield learn how to fix my own exhuast issues and future problems that might happen down the road thanks for making this video it was a good tutorial video 😁👍
No disrespect to the pros, but u were more helpful than them, thank u
Thanks again for the video.Cross my fingers on my 68 Camaro exhaust.Thank god it’s under the car we’re no one can see my shit set up.
I started with a big 220 Lincoln stick welder angle iron and box tubing also frame work on my car. I used a fluxcore welder .30 wire 2 heat stage high / low and wire speed was adjustable. Now I did exhaust on low heat overlap back and forth motion about 1 inch welds never had a issue blowing through the pipe. Never used gloves on a 110 either not needed unless you have sensitive skin. I also use the nozzle on my welder.
I would consider buying and learning on one of these for a couple of projects. The main one being I want to remove my catalytic converters on my "100% offroad only" truck and build a frame for a gas powered fan for a hot air balloon.
Your welds look slightly better than mine but my experience was reguardless of how good my weld looked i would have pinholes in it all the time when i pressure tested it.
I got them better check out my new videos.
I've done a bit of flux core gasless mig welding in my day, probably ran 100 lbs of wire the last 5 years. I did the exhaust on my truck recently and a few of the things you say are pretty inaccurate. I can run a solid bead for 1/4 of a 2.5" exhaust pipe without blowing through. The key is to turn the voltage and wire speed down, if it's still blowing holes then you need to move a little quicker while running the bead. Now, when it comes to this type of welding it's important to drag the nozzle not push, whenever stopping a weld you should drag the puddle back into the bead a little to keep from getting pits in the bead, sometimes even blowing through the edges of sheets.
Most importantly, clean the surface and practice, practice, practice.
That's it, turn her down. Just remember the saying "If there's slag, you drag."
thats wild! never seen such a tiny mig torch!
That weld looks good to me. I have never welded but my friend has with a cheap harbor freight transformer Flux core welder and his looked far worse and always leaked no matter how many times he tried to redo it.
Nice! I want to get into welding for car exaust, and my gosh does this seem easy!! Great video!
I have flux core welded exhuast b4 , im no welder but i turned my machine way down so not much heat and moved the torch fairly quickly kept the weld puddle moving had pope welded all way round in about 4 welds, only had to stop to turn exhust round and never burned thru, cheapest welder i could buy to outtta lidl, was like 90 euro and 4 euro for roll of wire, cant beat that
My 250a MiG welder has infinite adjustments for heat, and even with flux-core, I can turn down the heat low enough to continuously weld something thin like muffler pipe or rusty metal without burning through the steel.
Listen to the man
I'm thinking of getting a Mig this summer.
Yeah, making flux core look good is a challenge. But it's just like anything else. The more you do it, the better you'll get.
Now to be clear, I'm NOT a professional welder. I'm a professional mechanic by trade.
But just a little advice about flux core welding. You want to make sure you get a machine that has the correct polarity. Flux core needs to be run electrode negative. When used in that polarity you won't have so much spatter to clean up and you'll have much better welds.
These really cheap machines, such as the black Harbor Freight flux core machines, are wired electrode positive. Which is why they have problems. I know it sucks, but try to save up and spend that extra 75 or $100 to get a machine that is wired correctly. It's well worth it in the long run. But if you can't, I do understand that very well. Just get some scrap and start laying beads down. Do that for as long as it takes for you to get used to the machine and can lay down some welds that will actually hold. It just takes practice.
Much respect for you TPV!! For being big enough to readdress this and for giving folks good advice!!
You're The Man Brother!!! Y'all be safe out there!!🤠😎
Oh and I gives a f@#$ that this is three years old!!
fluxcore is KING!
Great video for a beginner like myself. Thank you for sharing brother
Brother, smart work cleaning and not welding over the slag and splatter.
However- tack, tack, tack and more tack!
make the job into a lot of little short sections.
Fill in a small section between tacks-then rotate the entire pipe to well the opposite section. This gives you a little more time to weld so you arent punching through. Take your time. Even when you clean it with that brush you are having friction between 2 metal surfaces. Friction=heat. Too much heat = holes.
Furthermore, f you continue welding it in one shot on one side, the metal will begin to pull and flex-so if you are trying to make specific angles etc, your finished product will be off.
Also. The anti rust stuff is an aluminized coating. Dont want to breath it in when vaporized.
Just my 2 cents. Great vid ! 🍻
After i took my car to the muffler shop and they rip me apart with a large bill i decide to get my own welder and learn how to do it my self🤷♂️
Bro nice job u helped me I gotta change my wire
We`ve all had to start from somewhere. Good on you to just dig in and just learn from your own mistakes.
This kind of weld job is what i`ve always referred to as: "Birdshit Welding"
Keep on welding... you`ll get there someday!
Thanks for the video, I'm about to turbo charge my Subaru outback h6 so this should help me to build a manifold!
You can do it for sure, it just takes longer with the flux if you want it to look decent. I have another video on anti-spatter it required less cleanup. I think with a little more practice the welds can look cleaner.
There's no way someone is turbo charging his car after appreciating the content of someone that can't weld himselfe.
How’s that turbo ej30/36?
@@joshrepik sold the car before I got around to it
Not a welder but this got me prepared lmao
Welding with a flux core is such a process! Haha! Love the video. No gloves too, next level man!
I put them gloves on in my other video. But indeed, Flux Core on thin metal is a lesson in patience.
Nicely done!!
Them no glove weld are savage
The reason why there is a hole is because you are too close of the weld, your flux wire doesnt heatup enough before touching so it does a point in it
Well done, I'm using a Harbor Freight and it's really ugly patching all of the burnout holes. Not to mention at the lowest settings and the pipe is thin and old 1 3/4" stock on a scissor lift.
I have to say that was very smooth welds for flux core would you be able to soon make another video with flux core welding 👍
I got it down a lot better now im releasing and exhaust video soon.
@11:50 "Aw man, that looks like CRAP". Looks better than mine! :) :)
with flux wire you need to push , not pull. Stay behind the weld and push it to the end. pulling is for solid wire. Hope this helps.
sean self: You have it backwards sir. With slag you drag is what it's called. You pull the weld for flux core. With solid wire you can go either way.
@@garthock1 you are correct thank you sir
function over form 👌🏻
I appreciate that you wanted to help new DIY welders BUT, your technique is wrong. I welded for Kawasaki welding and with thin metal you just need to move your welder with quick up down movement when welding a round piece and just tack it twice. Forget that spray and buy a small canister of tip dip to dunk you welder tip. That will ensure you don't get stuck to your item. Almost like Oxy/Ac welding but not circles. As you go up & down just get lower faster and it won't look like a billion tacks and take all day cleaning every tack before you do the next.!! Just keep it on low power on that thin stuff and use a clamp after two quick racks. Then put your weld line out off the bench and you just make quick up down strokes as the metal will run and you only need it to go 50% into the metal. This was painful to watch as you kept welding in one spot each time. Just keep the tip moving down and then half way back into previous circle as any good weld looks like little puddles melting into the next one like a wave. I wanted so badly to stop watching so I'm glad you fast forwarded to show finished welding after first few. Welding is not about tacking it is to create a little Lava run in waves so not side to side just let your weld drop down to next area then halfway back into the one you just left above and don't stop moving until you can't reach metal on the curve. That pipe only needs three weld runs to make the whole way around. Ignore the splatter until your completely done. Then if you have a dremel tool or Sander/ Buffer put on a 150 grit or higher preferred sand pad and give it a quick swipe to nock off any junk. If it is not going to be seen up under the vehicle exaust then it doesn't have to be pretty but MUST BE AIR TIGHT.!!!! If you just keep racking it all round your likely to have a few pin holes that will cause premature rust and "burn through" from engine exaust which is why if you have a hole some where and getting putt,putt, putt sound but pipe is sturdy except that spot then you just sand it or wire brush it and seal or fill the small spot. It is fast cheap for self or customer in a pinch who can't afford $250 for a new pipe. As long as your up front about you just patching it with a tiny throw away piece of pipe metal and not jack them you just might give them the confidence to let you replace it 6 months or a year later. If they can pass EPA test from no leak if you live in such a state. I have a similar inexpensive welder and was looking for something else when this page caught my eye so wanted to see if there was somet new technique to learn. I am in pain for you.! Try my suggestion down and halfway back, down halfway back. Your sure to improve the look & strength of your welds. In a few months of practice on any random metal you can find you will look like a Pro..! Good Luck. Welders are always in demand. I've done Mig, Tig, Acetylene, & Arc. I dislike using Arc sticks. When those little self feeders came out it was great for every DIYer. Just be aware of combustibles nearby. And have a great time learning a new skill. Trust me...I'm an OLD Guy. lol. I've already made most of my mistakes. You know, Wife, House, Kids (Triplets)... but the dog still loves me at least. I just need these 21 yr old girls to go back to college Dorms so I can get some peace. Damn Covid... I'm sure I have a few more mistakes ahead of me too. Wait, this isn't the Therapy forum. Oops.
It tickles me when a guy welds that good but call it crappy. I would have you weld my exhaust pipes with no problem👍....
Man that Lincoln flux core sounds a lot better than my cheezy harbor freight flux core. Never can get that thing to weld right. I feel like it should be able to weld an exhaust just fine, but cant get it. No matter the wire tension, or speed or high/low. No idea why it wont work ha. The welds just break off. They dont penetrate the metal at all.
I used my sister's $35 Ryobi 10" miter saw with an abrasive blade to cut pipe, and it works really well.
I love the welding job that will help, but sanding it to raw metal all around? Probably paint with high heat paint, cover welds too. Good video
I can make flux core welds look like it was welded with a regular mig all day even on exhaust. If your welding thinker metal to thinner then alway put the heat more into the thicker metal rather then the thin. You will blow less holes through it.
I got better and so can I now.
You can get some coolant to spray while your cutting to increase longevity of the blade and also maintain cleanliness
I'm pretty sure no matter what type of welder it is if you're punching holes through the material you probably have too big of a gap or your heat is turned up too high for the material you would think if you turn down the heat a little bit and turn up the feed you should be able to successfully weld a straight line but maybe I've been doing it wrong
Breathing the flux core fumes in conjunction with your repetitive flute song would drive me nuts.
for clean up go out and get a sanding disc or flapper wheel. and you don't risk having a cutoff disc exploding
This is a pretty late .. but I would recommend just getting a mig hardwire set up. I have the Lincoln with the flux core / mig combo. Welded a jeep frame with the flux core, plan to do my trucks exhaust with the mig. Flux core is exactly like stick welding. Runs hot as hell etc. just a thought, it’ll look a lot better and be a lot less work.
C mon man.. Is not bad.. It helpt me, I ve enjoy the vid. Thank
I got another one coming out soon. I was able to get it down a lot better. It should be helpful to DIY guys like myself.
@@TPVPRO those kind of vids man, they are the Holy Grail of DIY guys👍💪
I liked the video after the 3rd “sucks” 😂
Been using it even with old pipes no cleaning if you get the heat right. Over 15 years I’ve gone thru five harbor freight welders they cheap. Set it on hi and control your speed about 1.5 to 2 max no need to spot weld like that.
ruclips.net/video/62moqa9dICw/видео.html
@@TPVPRO just seen the video good job. I’ll leave my comment on just so other people can see it. Keep it up I’m subscribed to you and will continue to like your videos.
Do you cut those pipes dry? Shouldnt you use lubrication when cutting like that?
Some of the earlier welds *looked* poor, but were they really inferior as far as strength and durability is concerned?
InShould I pay 150 for my flex pipe from my car exhaust to be cut off and weld a new one or should I buy a 125 flex welder and learn myself and do it myself. They both about the same price
You have to drag it not go in circles, to get away from the flux if that makes sence. Turn it down a bit and weld, don't stop. Drag not push 👌
ruclips.net/video/62moqa9dICw/видео.html
That is not bad at all 👍
I have learnt through a long process of trial and error that this is the way to weld thin steel with a cheap flux core welder. I was hoping for a revelation that I was doing it wrong from this video but hey ho. I don't bother with ant-spatter, just use a flap wheel on clean up. The newer DC flux core welders look the way to go but they are not cheap enough yet to make the change - and I need to find someone to buy my AC machine first :( .
I herd the DC ones are pretty good.
I have a Lincoln flux machine with option for co2, I paid about 400 for it and it’s not all that worth it to me. We use the ln-25 suitcases at work to weld kilns and I like them a lot better.
I use an Esab Rebel that does flux core or gas, I can’t really say I’ve had any problems using flux core in fact it suits me better being outside most of the time, nothing worse using gas on a breezy day.
Great job, flux core is crap for 1mm steel.
good or not.. this guy was funny to listen to haha
Flux core naturally produces a lot of spatter. Has the most fume plume too.