Ok guys, the reason I've been hanging out here is that my son is embarking on an automtive project and some welding is involved. The project is to "lower" his Ford pickup and put air bags in the suspension. Kids...
Anyway, the rear section involves welding in a "step notch" onto the frame, then cutting the frame to alow the rear axle to go up inside. Here's a picture of someone else's work:
http://www.ampedsystems.com/graigb/suspension/images/DSC02533.JPG
The notch is 2 pcs of 1/4" steel with a cap welded over 3 sides. There's a 3/16" upper bag mount and a 1/4" steel "perch" that mounts the bottom of the bag, welded to the rear axle. The finished assembly (both sides) looks like this:
http://www.ampedsystems.com/graigb/suspension/images/DSC02538.JPG
I have 3 welding outfits to choose from, MIG, AC arc, and gas torch. I'm most proficient with a torch, but not an expert by any stretch.
What methods would you guys use to do this, and what tips could you offer? I have about a week to practice...
Thanks
MIG weld it and watch your kids eyes light up how quickly his (and yours) project is coming along.
I have lot's of Big Kid friends.
"I have lot's of Big Kid friends. "
LOL, man don't we all!
I read something once that I could relate too: "Be childlike in your endeavors and you will never grow old."
Just the fact that you're willing to do this seemingly useless modification to your sons truck is proof enough. :)) There's nothing better than messing about in the garage with cars, bikes, weedeater...whatever! My wife pops out sometimes and says something like "what are you doing to that bike now??", "I thought it was brand new...why are you taking it apart?", or my favorite "we're eating without you!". My son is only 4, but he's right there pounding away on something or cleaning is bike. No doubt I'll be there lowering his Civic and helping him bolt on performance crap in about 11 years!
yeah, MIG is the way to go. a stick welder is also useful for those hard to reach places. MIG is about 4 times faster than gas torch welding, and about twice as fast as a light duty stick welder. MIG won't distort things as much as a gas torch either. the less heated up things get, the less warpage.
dave i would agree with the other guys and go with the mig.one question is if this works like the air ride on semis because i have a f-350 that rides pretty rough and am wondering if this woul help or is it just to set ride height? good luck and have fun! its a great way to stay close to your kids
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