Question: Welding in pipe notch

[ca180]

So, I'm new to bagging and frame work and all the like. I've enjoyed tinkering with car and bike for a while, but never really went over to the fabrication side. So as far as a welder goes, all I have right now is a Lincoln that plugs into 120. Supposed to push like 130 amps though.

To get to my question, I'm sure that there would probably be issues with trying to build a step notch with such a small welder, but I plan on running air over leaf with a flip kit. So I was going to do a simple notch with pipe.

Do you guys think that I can get away with welding with my 120v welder? I do plan on boxing the back side.

Also, what size and thickness pipe should I use?

Thanks for any help

[jephs422]

for just a pipe notch, I'd say no prob. A 120v welder will be fine, and I'd use at least a 3/16 thick pipe. Be sure to leave a bit of a gap to fill with the welder since the 120v welder will have a hard time "burning". For example, if you frame is 2" wide, the make the notch 1-3/4" wide.

[FnLow69]

a 120 will work thats what i use on my notch, just bevel the edge's and leave an 1/8th inch cap and weld it up...

[ca180]

Thanks for the advice guys!

FnLow, love that dodge man!

[FnLow69]

thanks its a fun truck, im going to put bags on it in a couple weeks then it will be even more fun...

[ca180]

Oh, one last question... What would be the best diameter pipe to use and how far up in the frame?

I figured right at 5" since the axle housing is three(?) and no more than 2/3 into the frame (if that makes sense)

[stefan]

i was curious,i used a peice of 1/4 drill steam pipe on my notch but i didnt box in the back side,what size plate do most of you guys use when you box it in.thanks

[FnLow69]

what size, i would do a 2.5" or 3". As for the size plate to use for a backing, 3/16" would work good.