Hi there from a newby.
 

Hi folks,

My name is Louis and I have joined so that I can absorb as much info from forum members because I need as much help as I can get. I am restoring a 1951 Dodge M37 (Military version of a Dodge Power Wagon). Oh the rusted thru body panels.......:mad:

I am attempting to repair the rusted out cab and truck bed, but so far my test MIG welds have left some very warpad pieces of 16ga sheet (and a pretty warped self image too....!)

I have an el cheapo MIG welder with which I can lay down a ptetty good looking bead and I know my way around tools pretty well, but I really am a complete novice at metal shaping. I also have a OA rig, but have stayed away from that because I have had even worse luck with that.

So... I am here to learn and share my experience as I go along.:)

Nice to meet y'all,
Louis

Welome to Allmetalshaping Louis!
Now is the time to learn O/A it works alot better on sheet metal.
Good Luck

Hello Louis, Having both Mig and Gas welding is a great start. I use gas welding for most of the work I do, it is easier to learn than mig if you use the right technique. Mig has its uses as well but in my opinion mastering gas is a very important part of making panels. Most panels will have butt joints in them and this is best done with gas (my preference) or tig. Mig can leave a hard weld that is difficult at best to dress out. I have taught many people to gas weld and most pick up the traditional technique very quickly.

David