Lol dude people are shitting on this comment but you’re right. Same thing with buying a lot of tool types. Over a long period of time, being skilled and capable will vastly reduce the amount of money one needs to spend to solve their problems. Buy tools, learn shit, spend money/time now, reap benefits forever
My favorite saying that I'm sure a lot of the older viewers have heard " We have done so much for so long with so little we are now qualified to do anything with nothing " But it does make it way easier when you get the right tools. LOL
Evolution chop saw was my first purchase after I had an angle grinder and stick welder. Next I got the gear for scratch start TIG. If fit up is good and cuts are square it all becomes so much easier. Cutting square was what improved my game 10 fold. I've got dozens more tools since then, but those are the ones that seriously improved my game.
Started out just like this, and like you, have gathered some really nice tools. My 30 ton press, built by Manley in 1918. Have a Sheldon 10" lathe, circa 1942. Grizzley X3 mill (all in basement so weight comes into play). A couple migs, plasma cutter, and all the rest. My bender(uses JD2/32 dies), built from free plans I found at chopper handbook (link now dead but still found on the wayback). Still need to score a Tig. I find nothing more relaxing after work (electronic engineer specializing in DC torque tool repair and calibration) than to head to the basement shop, my garage or driveway and make some sparks and smoke. Keep em coming Nate!
I came back to watch this video again after 4months. Came to realize how fast tools are acquired. Went from just owning a welder and an angle grinder to having a fully stocked shop in about 4 months. (Might be your fault lol) Love the videos man!
About 6 months ago my daughter gave me a 1998 kx250 in bad shape I restored it I bought all the tools and parts and now my cramped dirty garage is clean and full of tools I just got a welding table and am going to build an off road vehicle from scratch getting a better welder soon my old Chicago electric welder sucks
From someone who’s been home welding and is fairly new my self in the grand scheme of things. But have learned a lot. Best welder you can barely afford. In my case a PrimeWeld 220 or Everlast 210 IMiG $800 mark Tape measure Square Triangle magnets Grinder/Cut off wheel Amazon auto darken mask Cheap leather work gloves (not the Gardner ones) Soapstone not a sharpy Harbor freight clamps. Preferable 2 big 2 small Those are the things I as a auto/home welder for my car and home projects use literally EVERY project. The basics and must haves. You could obviously go with a cheaper welder but those are my best recommended for anything under $1,000. The rest is personal need/use like tube benders, band saws, plasma cutters. Nice tools to have. But not the absolute must haves for any and all welders. I hope this helps someone, from one new guy with about 4 years experience to hopefully another new guy/girl.
I did a SAS on my s10 blazer with a 110 welder, grinder, and cord drill. It worked. Now I have a few more tools and building a Toyota. Anything is possible if you want it
My first investment has always been the safety stuff...after that second hand equipment gets you started (I believe in upgrading as your skills improve) 😊
Been down this road. Started with a Ryobi grinder and Clarke Flux core 120. You gotta start somewhere... Like you said, it's your creativity that counts, not the tools. Keep up the good work!
Great video...a lot of us can't afford to go out and buy a new $1,200 welder. I got blessed when a friend of mine traded me his older Hobart Handler for some work he needed done. It's a great welder for what it is and does (using a bottle/gas with it) almost anything a more expensive one will do. Yes an angle grinder is a big must-have for anyone doing metal work..better yet get two of them. I bought a Dewalt after my Ryobi died and what a difference! I converted my 14" wood band saw with a metal cutting blade and it works great for thin metal. It will cut 1/8" thick steel but better for thinner metal. I built a custom off-road front bumper and the bandsaw saved a lot of time. I cut most of my metal using a metal chop saw and the 4.5" grinder with the metal cut off blades. I compared Harbor Freight blades with more expensive blades and yes Harbor Freight blades don't last as long but almost as long so the money savings is worth it. I built an award winning custom street rod using nothing but an old arc welder. One good thing about an arc welder is that the welds penetrate every time better than most mig welders and you don't have to worry about the weld strength. There is a car trailer shop near me and they use arc welders exclusively...no migs in their shop. I use my arc welder for thicker steel. Used arc welders are easy to find and much less expensive than mig welders. It takes practice to use them but once you got it, you can weld anything..even thin metal.
This video gives me hope. I keep watching these shop talk videos where all I can see is the 2000 square foot shop space that I cannot possibly afford. This gives me somewhere to start, as I do have access to a single car garage space.
Craigslist and local auctions are your friend..... I have a full fabrication shop and 60 to70% of my tools are bought at auctions or craigslist. I have scored 3 to 4 thousand dollar welders for under a grand that way. There are lots of deals to be had right now..
In the past 4 years on Facebook i have bought a Milwaukee m18 mag drill for 800, 4x8 3/8" thick welding table for 50.00. Baldor 8" grinder for 75,00 and a Miller 352mpa with S74 wirefeeder and 25' XR alumapro gun for 5k. I have missed some too but you are right. If one knows what they are looking at,they can find some great deals. I have bought drop steel before and doubled my money in 24hrs. Most of my stuff has come from buying used or slightly used.
I’ve been a structural welded most of my career using Lincoln and Miller welders. I have a Miller portable welder that I use around the farm in my shop. When I decided I needed a wire welder I didn’t want to spend a lot of money and I bought the Vulcan Omni pro at Harbor freight. I’ve had absolutely no issues whatsoever with this machine. I think somebody wanting to get into fabricating. This would be an option to look at to get started and work your way up. You’re absolutely right you don’t need the high end stuff to get started. I think this is an awesome video or anybody wanting to get started fabricating. 👍
The first statement is SO TRUE! I've done some really incredible project with a old stick Welder and a bunch of old bed frame angle iron. Use you brain and be persistent, get your butt in the shop and start making stuff! It's so much fun!
You have the best youtube channel for metal fabrication on jeeps that I've found, my son and I have a 1972 jeep J4000 that was a frame up restoration from a guy that unfortunately passed away before it was completed, all the running gear was completely rebuilt but while it was at the shop to get completely rewired he passed away and the front and rear bumpers and tailgate were stolen. Hence I found your channel so we can attempt to make the bumpers ourselves. We are not metal fabricators but with your videos we feel more confident that we can do it. I have never supported a youtube channel before but I feel I need to support your. If your ever in the north Idaho area let us know
Great advice Nate. We all have to start somewhere, as the old saying goes "where there's a will there's a way". Keep it up bro may you be blessed with more tools than you know what to do with.
I've worked in the auto service department since the 80's. I can't tell you how much I love your videos. So much is spot on in so many ways. I hope those that are interested in following the fab/welding follow your lead. Rock on brother. I love your content.
3:20 angle grinder: check ... A very versatile tool: check An indispensable tool: check 3:33 three angle grinders: check Absolutely. First welder: borrowed a true friend's Lincoln 225 and welding helmet. Amazing what you can do, if you have to. Excellent video!
Started with lincoln 210mp, primeweld 225acdc, and Hobart airforce plasma cutter. Harbor freight grinder, belt sander, marking utensils, level, combo squares, flashlight(magnetic), about 10 clamps from H.F.....I upgraded then to Everlast 210EXT, then a Miller Dynasty 280 here recently, 320amp weldtec torch/tweco water cooler/ck20 torch and flexloc, trajan 7" carbide chop saw, dewalt grinder and bandsaw/stand, 20ton shop press with swag Offroad break press kit, 2 argon bottles 150cf, 1 75/25 mig bottle 80cf, drill press....etc....all I really want now is a stomp shear or CNC plasma table, something to cut sheet faster and cleaner, or a bigger bandsaw like you got there for aluminum. Stainless cuts are sooo slow with bandsaw. Any suggestions?
buddy i agree with you, we all start somewhere... you dont start withe 40x40 shop filled with ever tool you will ever need. i have had a angle grinder forever, last year picked up a millermatic 211, harbor freight 20 ton press, swag offroad press break. this year i just got a milwaulki right angle die grinder and a harbor freight mobile garage is what i think they list it as. works great to keep wind and rain out so i can weld and work on my free time. I have a xj with 7in long arm lift, it fits just barely i work on one side at a time and then move harbor freight tent over to do the other side. frame stiffeners are done, now i need to weld 3x6 tubing into the rockers. tubing bender and plasma cutter are on next years wish list. keep up the great work
So at the age of 41 I just purchased my first welder, Millermatic 211 dual voltage mig machine. This thing is incredible!! It works way better than any of the truck shop welders I've used in the last 20+ years LOL. I not longer work in a truck shop and don't have access to these type of shop tools anymore. I really apricate you and your show, watching it is teaching me loads. I am finally feeling comfortable enough to start doing my own fab work after so many years of just being a class 8 truck mechanic. Sadly the arthritis in my hands have slowed me down but at least I can take a break from working on my stuff and not have a customer breathing down my neck. I participate in Gambler500 shenanigans and I am gonna start building my own rear bumper with tire swing gate on my Gambler Burban then 4Runner. Once I feel up to it and have the money my Runner is getting the straight axle and 37's installed so I go play a little harder! Once again LOVE the content and keep up the good work!!
Thirty years ago I started buying tools to build Jeeps. Never bought any Harbor Freight crap. I always went to yard sales and flea markets and bought good used USA made tools. I would say 80% of my tools today I bought used. Don't waste your money on garbage. I started with a Lincoln Weld Pac 100 I bought at Home Depot for $199. It was a great welder to learn on. Guys today think they need the best most expensive stuff available. You don't. Great video.
When I was working in a car restoration/hot rod shop (as a 17yo old kid in vocational school! Thanks dad for knowing people!) I was basically shop B1tch but I learned so much. But when i used a nibbler the first time I was absolutely blown away!! My young mind was like this is AWESOME! BUT then I wanted to used it for almost everything lol boss was like wtf are u doing dummy!!!! Lol.. must say that was one of the best experience's of my life and let me down a path that I'm thankful for #bringbackvocationalschools
I bought a millermatic 211 about 5 years ago. It's a gas wire feed and has a 220 plug and a 110 plug. A high quality welder makes a big difference in your welds and use ability. Even though it was $1300 it's well worth it.
I started fabricating thing from watching your videos (thanks for the insperation).. my experience: i got the cheapest chinese tools i could find and if i could i even build my own tools at first i thought it was crap but i insisted and the quality and what you can do is not from the tool itself (somtimes it helps a little) but from your experience using it.. im getting so good at welding with my cheap wealder now im even impressing myself on how good this tool is.. so go get the tools that you can afford or build yoursself and start building!!
Hey Nate been watching your videos for some time now I live and work in Washington. I have been couped up since Wednesday, took a trip to harborview. I fell 12ft at work, I do gutters. I appreciate you video content so much man I can't wait to not be sore and work on my 88 samurai. You have given me way more that enough ideas. Once again thank Nate keeping my time occupied for a bit and giving me better ideas on how to work with metal. Hope all is well.
I have the same welder. I wanted a welder for about 10 years before I had a place to use it, a plug in for 220 and the cash to buy it, so just hang in there if you feel like you need it now.
Could you please do a whole shop tour video one day? This video alone gave me a small glimpse of it and it seems like absolute shop goals for what I want in my future!
For bending pipe, the seam on the pipe is welded, and not as stretchy, put the seam on the inside of the bend to help with kinking and ripples. Also look at bending tube by filling with sand, sand will help bend with very simple tools, and keep it from kinking.
I got a new multifunction Everlast welder for a few hundred off from someone who bought it and then sold it for $500 less; I still haven't gotten 220 whipped in but I did go broke for that welder because I know it'll last me forever....and then a little 110 fluxcore welder does a lot of stuff I need it in the meantime.
I have a Milwaukee angle grinder and really like it! One thing I would recommend: Do not get an angle grinder with a slide switch. Spend a bit more and get one with a paddle switch. Sooner or later you will drop the grinder while it is running, and with a slide switch it is going to keep running and possibly bounce into something you don't want it bouncing into (like your leg)! With a paddle switch, once you let go it starts shutting down.
This is a great video. I was in a metal fab shop in the Air Guard for 20 years so I have been around this stuff in the past. Now I am setting up a home shop to tinker with my Jeep and this is a really helpful guide.
Hi I guess I am not a "beginner" in the traditional sense. But I think we really never stop being "beginners". My last mig welder was nothing special, well used for more than 25 years until it would weld no more, one specific part that apparently they do not make any more, so it could not be repaired, I was told. The inner anatomy of a welder is a bit beyond me, so I mourned & went & bought a new multi- process inverter welder. It is awesome. It has made it more accessible to start learning to weld aluminium & stainless. For along time I put such because of the added cost. I think this is a good video with balanced advice. You got to start where you are @ & build from their. find way to get to "your" next level. It is a different journey for every one. Not everyone is going to have the big dollars to buy the Jedi gear. If you over spend on something & the stress that might come with that, can detract from the clove of creating. Your videos have inspired me to tackle projects that I wondered if was a bit beyond my ability. If you do not give it a go & make steps then you might not ever know or learn. I have found you do not have to take a risk but think of ways around solving problems. That can often be a bigger satisfaction win than a sexy penetrating weld. I like that you continue to bring up the importance of PPE, no matter how "best of the best of the best sir" :0) someone might be, we all need to be reminded. I don't know how many YT videos I have seen where people are using grinders in their fabrication gymnastics with a grinder WITH THE WHEEL GUARD OFF! Not that doing all the safe things can't lead to gruesome damage to your meat suit.
I think you touched on a ton of great points. When I left my home state, I lost access to what I see now has a gold mine of tools my father had collected over the years. Ironically one of the first power tools I purchased was a $10 harbor freight angle grinder. Grinders are such versatile tools, and I have 4 now of varying brands, two being the $10 harbor freight grinders which have a cut-off wheel, and wire brush on them all the time. As much as I love my dewalt 4.5, 7" grinders. You can't beat $10 for an angle grinder I've punished. Used 50 ton press, used vise, used metal work/fabricating table. I have been building my collection from the smaller cheaper tools, and am in search for a decent gas mig welder to be able to fabricate some bumpers for my suburban. But I have done tons of things, even without a welder just bending sheet metal in the press, and cutting it with grinders. But I am limited in my smaller garage with a single 110v-30amp breaker, so part of me is holding off because of that.
I'VE BEEN USING MY $10 HARBOR FREIGHT 4.5'' GRINDERS FOR YEARS NOW AND MY FLUX CORE WELDER - DID 32 PATCH PANELS IN MY JEEP WITH EM - CHEAPO BODY SAW - CHEAPO SMALL CUT OFF WHEEL - CHEAPO JIGSAW - all still good - USED A PIECE OFF I-BEAM TO HAMMER METAL AROUND - use your imagination and do what it takes to get the job done
My old boss bought everything used and repaired what he needed. Everything worked perfectly fine. Don't buy very low end tools cuz you'll spend more in the end. Buy middle of the road or buy a good machine used and fix it up. ALWAYS look at reviews too. The more the better. My wife got me doing that and it's saved me a lot of money
I have a 7 inch and three 4 inch grinders. For work flow. Found a used plasma cutter. Have an Eastwood, mig, inverter welder. 60% duty cycle. Next is a lift then TIG.
I recommend numatic tools. I'm planning to shop around for a used large air compressor, hose, and the tools. Numatic sander, grinder, saw, wrench are very nice investment.
A jigsaw with good metal blades is handy if you need to cut circles or odd shapes, or if you don't have another tool handy. I was building a bellhousing for a tractor and my hole saw was shot, a little patience with the jigsaw cut the 4" diameter hole in 1/4" mild steel.
Thnx do much for this video Nate. I've been going back and forth with a few items I wasn't comfortable spending the money on by themselves let alone for all of them. In this video you already simplified my life and I'm gonna take it back down to basics for the beginning and challenge my skill level rather then my wallet
Nice to see someone who has nice gear who remembers what it was like to have not so nice gear. Just got my first 220V mig welder so I'm starting to get nicer cheap tools. Also currently bidding on some tools at an auction. I only use facebook for the marketplace anymore. If you need to cut metal but can't afford the metal blade chop saw you can go old school with an abrasive chop saw. Yes there is a lot of sparks and heat but that's how metal was cut for years before the steel blade chop saw came along.
As if I need another hobby... I too, have been considering some metal fabrication. I have a lot of these tools already but watching your channel makes me want to expand my capabilities. Great video!
I just had to say thanks Nate. Though I have access to all kinds of fabrication tools (mine/friends), I hadn’t taken the plunge until feeling inspired by your vids. I recently made a receiver hitch slider/stinger using an old receiver hitch and some 3/8 diamond plate. Having access to a massive Cincinnati press brake helped. It was built to protect the butt-end of a new 4Runner. Thx!
This video came at a perfect time for me. I just picked up a new Lincoln 180 MIG off craigslist for a screaming deal to start building what I want. Thank you for these videos and keep them coming!
the third keith does metal fabrication with hacksaws and brazing torches, you can go REALLY dang cheap and still get great results. though i learned on acetylene, i got a mapp torch, aside from the need to get a larger oxy tank hooked up for any reasonable sized job, it'll still do light welding.
Good dry air is the key to long life of plasma consumables, a high dollar unit will burn through consumables like a cheap one if air is crap. I had the miller 375,,,worked great. Then sold it, no shop for a while. Then bought a cheapie, but have very good dry air and never an issue. Same consumables for couple years with intermitant use. I have a plasma table, with a machine torch, so my hand held cheapie is used mostly for cutting up the scrap after.
Thanks for this one. I realized that I already have about 80% of the items you mentioned minus the welder itself. Never really thought about buying used equipment. Around here the oil field is in a lull right now so they are occasionally liquidating assets, maybe I can catch a higher end welder and other items for a good price.
Thank you for your love of the discovery I recently traded my 64 cj5 for a 02 Land Rover discovery due mostly to you and your build I wanna do most of what you have done to your Landy
Personally I recommend the Hone 140amp 110/220 stick welder. The better model is about $90 shipped. Mask, 7018 3/32nds rods, and gloves another $58 and now you have the basics to stick weld. I discovered (not surprised at the price point) that the wire itself on the leads is 6 AWG CCA (copper clad (plated) aluminum). It will work but if you run the unit hard the increased resistance will speed your unit overheating. It's about $100 to buy the necessary stuff to upgrade to pure copper 4 AWG, 25ft x 2, new dins, and copper lugs for the wire end. I promise you just like your car amp, the welder will thank you by not heating up so quickly. The stick leads will carry the full amperage but I wouldn't recommend using those leads forever. I've seen a video of someone testing 00 CCA vs OFC. You could literally watch the CCA heat up on the thermal camera video he showed.
Just a suggestion...the harbor freight 4x6 bandsaw was a game changer when I was starting off...put a quality usa made blade in it...and it will carry you a long way before you need (if ever) to upgrade. Highly recommend purchasing this first before the Evolution (which I have also)...lets you cut bigger and thicker as your projects grow...albeit slower for small stuff. And this from a guy who generally despises harbor freight products...as I'm 1,000 miles and plane flight from being able to swap out when the products brakes....as everything HF does. My HF pipe bender...worked twice before cylinder started leaking for example.
goo d video , I am just getting started in the fab end . done body and fender and paint . So i have a lot of the basic tools. But not many of the bigger cutting tools. I just got a plasma cutter. A little at a time.
I'm really digging your channel. Found it because of the offload videos but your how-to's are excellent. Planning on retiring from the Navy at the end of next year and move back home to Montana and build up my 1965 FJ40, also some mods on my two diesel trucks for wheeling and overland. I used to be an aviation metalsmith which doesn't include welding but I think I'd like to get back into it for a second career of vehicles and equipment. Anyway. keep up the videos I look forward to seeing the Disco in some offload situations.
Good and very true video. Totally correct. One should get only simple tools to begin with, then work up to better tools. Better tools are more expensive, but so to should the attention brought to the quality production of the work you do with them. That said, I am just starting and bought my first very used Lincoln Handy mig welder for 150 dollars, and a used helmet for 40 dollars. I've already picked out the better equipment for later, but for the time being, I'm entering a learning curve. I'll start practicing the basics when I get the rest of the ppe stuff because I learned the hard way a bunch of years ago.
I just picked up my first welder, it sounds a lot like your 1st one. Those chop saws are awesome. We used them with a concrete blade and a shopvac for masonry work.
I bought the amico power 200 amps is by far the best welder for the price, paid about 200 bucks and can burn a wide variety of electrodes from 1/16 to 1/4 with ease
I've got three 4.5in angle grinders 1 has a cut off wheel another has a knotted wire wheel and the third has a grinding wheel so no swapping out disks.
Really great explanation. The first problem I had was getting sunburnt haha, totally didn't expect a wicked sunburn after only a couple days welding. I'm still a beginner and I really appreciate you sharing your experience and what's important in your shop.
I saw a Central Machinery 13" 16 speed drill press on line from Harbor Freight for 299 dollars. that isn't bad. I saw the same shear, break and roller you have from Harbor Freight for 299 dollars as well. Some of the things they sell are actually a good buy!
Hi. Hey I just found your videos, maybe like 3 days ago. They are great. The filming is of great quality. Anyway, I really like this video because your often mentioned that there is not need to start big and that little by little anyone can keep adding to his/her inventory. In addition, I also like the fact that you stressed the need to pay attention to protection. That was great! Thank you!
To testify about starting with very little. . .. In 2009, with no tools except a philips screwdriver and a couple of clamps that were basically little more than big clothes pins, I made myself a desk from a few pieces of wood and cinderblock I found lying around. This desk is still my primary desk. Yeah, it's wood 'work' and not metalwork, but same principle.
Those pliers man... I had no idea they existed either! YEEEAAARRRSSS of self-taught welding later, and I saw you using them in one of your videos and looked em up! Glad i did!
Hey dude i just wanted to say that out of a lot of channels i watch when i am not taking car of my daughter, hanging with the fiance or wrenching under a customers vehicle i love your vlogs. Super informative, awesome cinematography and overall great channel to learn from and just enjoy!! I am pumped to finally be back in a new to me 2012 wrangler and to be able to get back to doing my thing!! Thanks for the great content and keep it going my friend. Looking forward to getting time to work on my own JK as soon as I have a day i am not fixing a customers ride!!
Some of the best carpenters I ever met only needed a Skil saw a glass of water in a pocket knife and they could build you anything. If you’re on capable of doing it, the tools will make you better, but they’ll never replace your talent.
Quick tip for beginners if you have magnets and they have a lot of metal dust and crap stuck to it just grab your wire brush and run it along the edges real quick and it cleans it right off
Flux core mig welding is great with some modern welders. I can do alot with mine and it was 200 new. I can buy bottle later and I realised it all about technic
Excellent video..! The best tool is our brain, if theres a will there is always a way... I personally have a Lincoln SP135 110v welder which will do 1/4" with proper prep but I never weld on anything that thick. I built a small utility trailer 2yrs ago with it and was simply amazed at its performance for what it is... I also picked up a prime weld tig welder for an aluminum project I needed built... Learning to TIG aluminum was a challenge indeed but another skill in my tool box... Next project will be a motorized roller about 18" wide for making fire rings etc and yes one day lol a CNC plasma cutter will be built lol
Excellent video! Thank you Nate. I try to shop around and am always on the lookout for a deal, even on used equipment and tools. Yard sales Garage closure sales Craigslist NextDoor Facebook marketplace Pawn shops Family hand me downs For something new that's too expensive for you to pay full upfront costs like a welder or plasma cutter, a lot of stores offer lines of credit (assuming decent credit rating) that you apply for so you can pay over time and still take it home that day. In a lot of those cases you can get no interest financing if paid off within the promotional period. That's how I bought my welder at Lowe's.
2 minutes in, that's exactly why I started learning blacksmithing, if ya need a tool, ya make a tool, simple as that.
Nice, can you forge me a plasma cutter?
And it's fun! Don't forget that.
Damn that’s crazy Can your make me a laser cutter using only metal? Thats what I thought be quiet bro 😂
Lol dude people are shitting on this comment but you’re right. Same thing with buying a lot of tool types. Over a long period of time, being skilled and capable will vastly reduce the amount of money one needs to spend to solve their problems. Buy tools, learn shit, spend money/time now, reap benefits forever
forging is cool for like swords and helmets but can you forge a piece of rusted car frame that needs to be replaced
My favorite saying that I'm sure a lot of the older viewers have heard " We have done so much for so long with so little we are now qualified to do anything with nothing " But it does make it way easier when you get the right tools. LOL
Gonna like this before I even watch it. Coming from you I know this is going to be a great video.
Thanks man!
Same haha
literally do this every video. And watch the ads all the way through.
Evolution chop saw was my first purchase after I had an angle grinder and stick welder. Next I got the gear for scratch start TIG. If fit up is good and cuts are square it all becomes so much easier. Cutting square was what improved my game 10 fold. I've got dozens more tools since then, but those are the ones that seriously improved my game.
Started out just like this, and like you, have gathered some really nice tools. My 30 ton press, built by Manley in 1918. Have a Sheldon 10" lathe, circa 1942. Grizzley X3 mill (all in basement so weight comes into play). A couple migs, plasma cutter, and all the rest. My bender(uses JD2/32 dies), built from free plans I found at chopper handbook (link now dead but still found on the wayback). Still need to score a Tig. I find nothing more relaxing after work (electronic engineer specializing in DC torque tool repair and calibration) than to head to the basement shop, my garage or driveway and make some sparks and smoke. Keep em coming Nate!
Look at the primeweld tig 225x. I love mine great warranty and great company to work with!
I came back to watch this video again after 4months. Came to realize how fast tools are acquired. Went from just owning a welder and an angle grinder to having a fully stocked shop in about 4 months. (Might be your fault lol) Love the videos man!
About 6 months ago my daughter gave me a 1998 kx250 in bad shape I restored it I bought all the tools and parts and now my cramped dirty garage is clean and full of tools I just got a welding table and am going to build an off road vehicle from scratch getting a better welder soon my old Chicago electric welder sucks
Since I probably can't move in next door to you...your videos are the next best thing. Great intro. Thanks
Lol thanks
From someone who’s been home welding and is fairly new my self in the grand scheme of things. But have learned a lot.
Best welder you can barely afford. In my case a PrimeWeld 220 or Everlast 210 IMiG $800 mark
Tape measure
Square
Triangle magnets
Grinder/Cut off wheel
Amazon auto darken mask
Cheap leather work gloves (not the Gardner ones)
Soapstone not a sharpy
Harbor freight clamps. Preferable 2 big 2 small
Those are the things I as a auto/home welder for my car and home projects use literally EVERY project. The basics and must haves. You could obviously go with a cheaper welder but those are my best recommended for anything under $1,000. The rest is personal need/use like tube benders, band saws, plasma cutters. Nice tools to have. But not the absolute must haves for any and all welders.
I hope this helps someone, from one new guy with about 4 years experience to hopefully another new guy/girl.
Thank you
Thank you!!!❤
This video is 4 years old and everything still applies today. Gotta love the trades 👍
I did a SAS on my s10 blazer with a 110 welder, grinder, and cord drill. It worked. Now I have a few more tools and building a Toyota. Anything is possible if you want it
back roads drifter well said. You want it badly enough you will find a way and what it takes. 👍🏼
My first investment has always been the safety stuff...after that second hand equipment gets you started (I believe in upgrading as your skills improve) 😊
I like this approach. Never cheap out on your safety. You can buy newer and better tools, you can't buy new fingers 🙂
Your right. $4k welder won't get much use after your dead from lung cancer or melanoma. Buy some safety gear so you can fab longer
@@phoenixburns3943 lol!!
Been down this road. Started with a Ryobi grinder and Clarke Flux core 120. You gotta start somewhere... Like you said, it's your creativity that counts, not the tools. Keep up the good work!
Great video...a lot of us can't afford to go out and buy a new $1,200 welder. I got blessed when a friend of mine traded me his older Hobart Handler for some work he needed done. It's a great welder for what it is and does (using a bottle/gas with it) almost anything a more expensive one will do. Yes an angle grinder is a big must-have for anyone doing metal work..better yet get two of them. I bought a Dewalt after my Ryobi died and what a difference! I converted my 14" wood band saw with a metal cutting blade and it works great for thin metal. It will cut 1/8" thick steel but better for thinner metal. I built a custom off-road front bumper and the bandsaw saved a lot of time. I cut most of my metal using a metal chop saw and the 4.5" grinder with the metal cut off blades. I compared Harbor Freight blades with more expensive blades and yes Harbor Freight blades don't last as long but almost as long so the money savings is worth it. I built an award winning custom street rod using nothing but an old arc welder. One good thing about an arc welder is that the welds penetrate every time better than most mig welders and you don't have to worry about the weld strength. There is a car trailer shop near me and they use arc welders exclusively...no migs in their shop. I use my arc welder for thicker steel. Used arc welders are easy to find and much less expensive than mig welders. It takes practice to use them but once you got it, you can weld anything..even thin metal.
This video gives me hope. I keep watching these shop talk videos where all I can see is the 2000 square foot shop space that I cannot possibly afford. This gives me somewhere to start, as I do have access to a single car garage space.
Craigslist and local auctions are your friend..... I have a full fabrication shop and 60 to70% of my tools are bought at auctions or craigslist. I have scored 3 to 4 thousand dollar welders for under a grand that way. There are lots of deals to be had right now..
In the past 4 years on Facebook i have bought a Milwaukee m18 mag drill for 800, 4x8 3/8" thick welding table for 50.00. Baldor 8" grinder for 75,00 and a Miller 352mpa with S74 wirefeeder and 25' XR alumapro gun for 5k. I have missed some too but you are right. If one knows what they are looking at,they can find some great deals. I have bought drop steel before and doubled my money in 24hrs. Most of my stuff has come from buying used or slightly used.
As a welder for 17 years I can honestly say that you made a great choice by choosing Miller . Keep up the awesome work.
I’ve been a structural welded most of my career using Lincoln and Miller welders. I have a Miller portable welder that I use around the farm in my shop. When I decided I needed a wire welder I didn’t want to spend a lot of money and I bought the Vulcan Omni pro at Harbor freight. I’ve had absolutely no issues whatsoever with this machine. I think somebody wanting to get into fabricating. This would be an option to look at to get started and work your way up. You’re absolutely right you don’t need the high end stuff to get started. I think this is an awesome video or anybody wanting to get started fabricating. 👍
The first statement is SO TRUE! I've done some really incredible project with a old stick Welder and a bunch of old bed frame angle iron. Use you brain and be persistent, get your butt in the shop and start making stuff! It's so much fun!
Old bed frame angle! Lol I relate to this so much 😂 thanks for watching 🤘
You have the best youtube channel for metal fabrication on jeeps that I've found, my son and I have a 1972 jeep J4000 that was a frame up restoration from a guy that unfortunately passed away before it was completed, all the running gear was completely rebuilt but while it was at the shop to get completely rewired he passed away and the front and rear bumpers and tailgate were stolen. Hence I found your channel so we can attempt to make the bumpers ourselves. We are not metal fabricators but with your videos we feel more confident that we can do it.
I have never supported a youtube channel before but I feel I need to support your. If your ever in the north Idaho area let us know
Great advice Nate. We all have to start somewhere, as the old saying goes "where there's a will there's a way". Keep it up bro may you be blessed with more tools than you know what to do with.
Thanks brother!
I've worked in the auto service department since the 80's. I can't tell you how much I love your videos. So much is spot on in so many ways. I hope those that are interested in following the fab/welding follow your lead. Rock on brother. I love your content.
Much appreciated man! Thanks you 🤘
Killed it with the new angles during the conversation with the audience. Really breaking the 4th wall in a big way. Loved it all
Thanks man!
For angle grinders, follow Nate, and keep the guard on the tool! Especially when using cutting discs.
Preach it, brother! A grinder, welder, decent drill, and a some ingenuity can build a whole lot.
3:20 angle grinder: check ...
A very versatile tool: check
An indispensable tool: check
3:33 three angle grinders: check
Absolutely.
First welder: borrowed a true friend's Lincoln 225 and welding helmet. Amazing what you can do, if you have to.
Excellent video!
Started with lincoln 210mp, primeweld 225acdc, and Hobart airforce plasma cutter. Harbor freight grinder, belt sander, marking utensils, level, combo squares, flashlight(magnetic), about 10 clamps from H.F.....I upgraded then to Everlast 210EXT, then a Miller Dynasty 280 here recently, 320amp weldtec torch/tweco water cooler/ck20 torch and flexloc, trajan 7" carbide chop saw, dewalt grinder and bandsaw/stand, 20ton shop press with swag Offroad break press kit, 2 argon bottles 150cf, 1 75/25 mig bottle 80cf, drill press....etc....all I really want now is a stomp shear or CNC plasma table, something to cut sheet faster and cleaner, or a bigger bandsaw like you got there for aluminum. Stainless cuts are sooo slow with bandsaw. Any suggestions?
buddy i agree with you, we all start somewhere... you dont start withe 40x40 shop filled with ever tool you will ever need. i have had a angle grinder forever, last year picked up a millermatic 211, harbor freight 20 ton press, swag offroad press break. this year i just got a milwaulki right angle die grinder and a harbor freight mobile garage is what i think they list it as. works great to keep wind and rain out so i can weld and work on my free time. I have a xj with 7in long arm lift, it fits just barely i work on one side at a time and then move harbor freight tent over to do the other side. frame stiffeners are done, now i need to weld 3x6 tubing into the rockers. tubing bender and plasma cutter are on next years wish list. keep up the great work
One person's mad bc their excuses overwhelm their creativity. Solid video again, Nate. Keep inspiring
So at the age of 41 I just purchased my first welder, Millermatic 211 dual voltage mig machine. This thing is incredible!! It works way better than any of the truck shop welders I've used in the last 20+ years LOL. I not longer work in a truck shop and don't have access to these type of shop tools anymore. I really apricate you and your show, watching it is teaching me loads. I am finally feeling comfortable enough to start doing my own fab work after so many years of just being a class 8 truck mechanic. Sadly the arthritis in my hands have slowed me down but at least I can take a break from working on my stuff and not have a customer breathing down my neck. I participate in Gambler500 shenanigans and I am gonna start building my own rear bumper with tire swing gate on my Gambler Burban then 4Runner. Once I feel up to it and have the money my Runner is getting the straight axle and 37's installed so I go play a little harder! Once again LOVE the content and keep up the good work!!
Nice! It sounds like you have some great projects! And that Miller 211 is supposed to be a great machine 👍
Thirty years ago I started buying tools to build Jeeps. Never bought any Harbor Freight crap. I always went to yard sales and flea markets and bought good used USA made tools. I would say 80% of my tools today I bought used. Don't waste your money on garbage. I started with a Lincoln Weld Pac 100 I bought at Home Depot for $199. It was a great welder to learn on. Guys today think they need the best most expensive stuff available. You don't. Great video.
When I was working in a car restoration/hot rod shop (as a 17yo old kid in vocational school! Thanks dad for knowing people!) I was basically shop B1tch but I learned so much. But when i used a nibbler the first time I was absolutely blown away!! My young mind was like this is AWESOME! BUT then I wanted to used it for almost everything lol boss was like wtf are u doing dummy!!!! Lol.. must say that was one of the best experience's of my life and let me down a path that I'm thankful for
#bringbackvocationalschools
Another great video. I love how you take the time to respond to peoples questions/comments and give educated answers. Props!
Thanks!
Started welding with a Lincolm 225 AC at the age of 11 still have one along with a Lincolm 250 amp AC/DC with Oxy/Acct torch Drill press flore model
I bought a millermatic 211 about 5 years ago. It's a gas wire feed and has a 220 plug and a 110 plug. A high quality welder makes a big difference in your welds and use ability. Even though it was $1300 it's well worth it.
I started fabricating thing from watching your videos (thanks for the insperation).. my experience: i got the cheapest chinese tools i could find and if i could i even build my own tools at first i thought it was crap but i insisted and the quality and what you can do is not from the tool itself (somtimes it helps a little) but from your experience using it.. im getting so good at welding with my cheap wealder now im even impressing myself on how good this tool is.. so go get the tools that you can afford or build yoursself and start building!!
I'm 2min in and I love how you r moving around the shop working on stuff while talking
Thank you! I'm testing out some different shooting and editing syles. Happy to see someone noticed 👍
Hey Nate been watching your videos for some time now I live and work in Washington. I have been couped up since Wednesday, took a trip to harborview. I fell 12ft at work, I do gutters. I appreciate you video content so much man I can't wait to not be sore and work on my 88 samurai. You have given me way more that enough ideas. Once again thank Nate keeping my time occupied for a bit and giving me better ideas on how to work with metal. Hope all is well.
I have the same welder. I wanted a welder for about 10 years before I had a place to use it, a plug in for 220 and the cash to buy it, so just hang in there if you feel like you need it now.
The Vulcan migmax 215 was about 1100 with a hood 10lb wire and a big bottle of c25 and I love it
Could you please do a whole shop tour video one day? This video alone gave me a small glimpse of it and it seems like absolute shop goals for what I want in my future!
For bending pipe, the seam on the pipe is welded, and not as stretchy, put the seam on the inside of the bend to help with kinking and ripples. Also look at bending tube by filling with sand, sand will help bend with very simple tools, and keep it from kinking.
I got a new multifunction Everlast welder for a few hundred off from someone who bought it and then sold it for $500 less; I still haven't gotten 220 whipped in but I did go broke for that welder because I know it'll last me forever....and then a little 110 fluxcore welder does a lot of stuff I need it in the meantime.
I have a Milwaukee angle grinder and really like it! One thing I would recommend: Do not get an angle grinder with a slide switch. Spend a bit more and get one with a paddle switch. Sooner or later you will drop the grinder while it is running, and with a slide switch it is going to keep running and possibly bounce into something you don't want it bouncing into (like your leg)! With a paddle switch, once you let go it starts shutting down.
This is a great video. I was in a metal fab shop in the Air Guard for 20 years so I have been around this stuff in the past. Now I am setting up a home shop to tinker with my Jeep and this is a really helpful guide.
Hi I guess I am not a "beginner" in the traditional sense. But I think we really never stop being "beginners".
My last mig welder was nothing special, well used for more than 25 years until it would weld no more, one specific part that apparently they do not make any more, so it could not be repaired, I was told. The inner anatomy of a welder is a bit beyond me, so I mourned & went & bought a new multi- process inverter welder.
It is awesome. It has made it more accessible to start learning to weld aluminium & stainless. For along time I put such because of the added cost.
I think this is a good video with balanced advice. You got to start where you are @ & build from their. find way to get to "your" next level. It is a different journey for every one.
Not everyone is going to have the big dollars to buy the Jedi gear. If you over spend on something & the stress that might come with that, can detract from the clove of creating.
Your videos have inspired me to tackle projects that I wondered if was a bit beyond my ability. If you do not give it a go & make steps then you might not ever know or learn. I have found you do not have to take a risk but think of ways around solving problems. That can often be a bigger satisfaction win than a sexy penetrating weld.
I like that you continue to bring up the importance of PPE, no matter how "best of the best of the best sir" :0) someone might be, we all need to be reminded.
I don't know how many YT videos I have seen where people are using grinders in their fabrication gymnastics with a grinder WITH THE WHEEL GUARD OFF!
Not that doing all the safe things can't lead to gruesome damage to your meat suit.
I think you touched on a ton of great points. When I left my home state, I lost access to what I see now has a gold mine of tools my father had collected over the years. Ironically one of the first power tools I purchased was a $10 harbor freight angle grinder. Grinders are such versatile tools, and I have 4 now of varying brands, two being the $10 harbor freight grinders which have a cut-off wheel, and wire brush on them all the time. As much as I love my dewalt 4.5, 7" grinders. You can't beat $10 for an angle grinder I've punished. Used 50 ton press, used vise, used metal work/fabricating table. I have been building my collection from the smaller cheaper tools, and am in search for a decent gas mig welder to be able to fabricate some bumpers for my suburban. But I have done tons of things, even without a welder just bending sheet metal in the press, and cutting it with grinders. But I am limited in my smaller garage with a single 110v-30amp breaker, so part of me is holding off because of that.
I'VE BEEN USING MY $10 HARBOR FREIGHT 4.5'' GRINDERS FOR YEARS NOW AND MY FLUX CORE WELDER - DID 32 PATCH PANELS IN MY JEEP WITH EM - CHEAPO BODY SAW - CHEAPO SMALL CUT OFF WHEEL - CHEAPO JIGSAW - all still good - USED A PIECE OFF I-BEAM TO HAMMER METAL AROUND - use your imagination and do what it takes to get the job done
Just getting started. Good advice and gives thought for future tools.
My old boss bought everything used and repaired what he needed. Everything worked perfectly fine. Don't buy very low end tools cuz you'll spend more in the end. Buy middle of the road or buy a good machine used and fix it up. ALWAYS look at reviews too. The more the better. My wife got me doing that and it's saved me a lot of money
I started with an oxy acetylene torch, a hacksaw and a Black & Decker wildcat grinder that made the lights dim. Great video as always!👍
I have a 7 inch and three 4 inch grinders. For work flow. Found a used plasma cutter. Have an Eastwood, mig, inverter welder. 60% duty cycle. Next is a lift then TIG.
I recommend numatic tools. I'm planning to shop around for a used large air compressor, hose, and the tools. Numatic sander, grinder, saw, wrench are very nice investment.
A jigsaw with good metal blades is handy if you need to cut circles or odd shapes, or if you don't have another tool handy. I was building a bellhousing for a tractor and my hole saw was shot, a little patience with the jigsaw cut the 4" diameter hole in 1/4" mild steel.
Thnx do much for this video Nate. I've been going back and forth with a few items I wasn't comfortable spending the money on by themselves let alone for all of them. In this video you already simplified my life and I'm gonna take it back down to basics for the beginning and challenge my skill level rather then my wallet
Nice to see someone who has nice gear who remembers what it was like to have not so nice gear.
Just got my first 220V mig welder so I'm starting to get nicer cheap tools.
Also currently bidding on some tools at an auction.
I only use facebook for the marketplace anymore.
If you need to cut metal but can't afford the metal blade chop saw you can go old school with an abrasive chop saw.
Yes there is a lot of sparks and heat but that's how metal was cut for years before the steel blade chop saw came along.
As if I need another hobby... I too, have been considering some metal fabrication. I have a lot of these tools already but watching your channel makes me want to expand my capabilities. Great video!
Buying my first welder tomorrow, because this video finally pushed me over the edge. Thank you Nate!!
I just had to say thanks Nate. Though I have access to all kinds of fabrication tools (mine/friends), I hadn’t taken the plunge until feeling inspired by your vids. I recently made a receiver hitch slider/stinger using an old receiver hitch and some 3/8 diamond plate. Having access to a massive Cincinnati press brake helped. It was built to protect the butt-end of a new 4Runner. Thx!
This video came at a perfect time for me. I just picked up a new Lincoln 180 MIG off craigslist for a screaming deal to start building what I want. Thank you for these videos and keep them coming!
Nice! Lincoln makes a great machine 🤘
Im very motivated to make my own project on my truck, ill have some tools already, excellent information, subscribed!
the third keith does metal fabrication with hacksaws and brazing torches, you can go REALLY dang cheap and still get great results. though i learned on acetylene, i got a mapp torch, aside from the need to get a larger oxy tank hooked up for any reasonable sized job, it'll still do light welding.
Good dry air is the key to long life of plasma consumables, a high dollar unit will burn through consumables like a cheap one if air is crap. I had the miller 375,,,worked great. Then sold it, no shop for a while. Then bought a cheapie, but have very good dry air and never an issue. Same consumables for couple years with intermitant use. I have a plasma table, with a machine torch, so my hand held cheapie is used mostly for cutting up the scrap after.
Great video... I just bought a Evolution saw today and man I wished I had got one sooner what a great improvement over the abrasive cut off saw.
The thing regarding welding, I recommend getting into MIG and TIG. They are very popular in sheetmetal companies. Sheetmetal jobs are very popular.
A minute in and I'm hooked. Great perspective.
Thanks for this one. I realized that I already have about 80% of the items you mentioned minus the welder itself. Never really thought about buying used equipment. Around here the oil field is in a lull right now so they are occasionally liquidating assets, maybe I can catch a higher end welder and other items for a good price.
Good call! Old construction equipment can be a gold mine 👍
Or in this case oil field equipment lol
Great intro to basic fabricating tools list. Thanks!
I got a lot of value out of this. Thank you!
Thank you for your love of the discovery I recently traded my 64 cj5 for a 02 Land Rover discovery due mostly to you and your build I wanna do most of what you have done to your Landy
metal chop saw and nibbler are on my list .
I have the swag table and portaband combo -- use them a lot - very handy.
Personally I recommend the Hone 140amp 110/220 stick welder. The better model is about $90 shipped. Mask, 7018 3/32nds rods, and gloves another $58 and now you have the basics to stick weld. I discovered (not surprised at the price point) that the wire itself on the leads is 6 AWG CCA (copper clad (plated) aluminum). It will work but if you run the unit hard the increased resistance will speed your unit overheating. It's about $100 to buy the necessary stuff to upgrade to pure copper 4 AWG, 25ft x 2, new dins, and copper lugs for the wire end. I promise you just like your car amp, the welder will thank you by not heating up so quickly. The stick leads will carry the full amperage but I wouldn't recommend using those leads forever. I've seen a video of someone testing 00 CCA vs OFC. You could literally watch the CCA heat up on the thermal camera video he showed.
Just a suggestion...the harbor freight 4x6 bandsaw was a game changer when I was starting off...put a quality usa made blade in it...and it will carry you a long way before you need (if ever) to upgrade. Highly recommend purchasing this first before the Evolution (which I have also)...lets you cut bigger and thicker as your projects grow...albeit slower for small stuff. And this from a guy who generally despises harbor freight products...as I'm 1,000 miles and plane flight from being able to swap out when the products brakes....as everything HF does. My HF pipe bender...worked twice before cylinder started leaking for example.
goo d video , I am just getting started in the fab end . done body and fender and paint . So i have a lot of the basic tools. But not many of the bigger cutting tools. I just got a plasma cutter. A little at a time.
I'm really digging your channel. Found it because of the offload videos but your how-to's are excellent. Planning on retiring from the Navy at the end of next year and move back home to Montana and build up my 1965 FJ40, also some mods on my two diesel trucks for wheeling and overland. I used to be an aviation metalsmith which doesn't include welding but I think I'd like to get back into it for a second career of vehicles and equipment. Anyway. keep up the videos I look forward to seeing the Disco in some offload situations.
Perfect video. Helped my confidence 10 fold. Dirt Lifestyle. Heck yes!
Good and very true video. Totally correct. One should get only simple tools to begin with, then work up to better tools. Better tools are more expensive, but so to should the attention brought to the quality production of the work you do with them. That said, I am just starting and bought my first very used Lincoln Handy mig welder for 150 dollars, and a used helmet for 40 dollars. I've already picked out the better equipment for later, but for the time being, I'm entering a learning curve. I'll start practicing the basics when I get the rest of the ppe stuff because I learned the hard way a bunch of years ago.
All I have is an angle grinder and a 70's Miller mig and a 80's Lincoln tig. Works well for me
I just picked up my first welder, it sounds a lot like your 1st one. Those chop saws are awesome. We used them with a concrete blade and a shopvac for masonry work.
I bought the amico power 200 amps is by far the best welder for the price, paid about 200 bucks and can burn a wide variety of electrodes from 1/16 to 1/4 with ease
Hell of a great work area! Appreciate the info..... especially emphasis you place on protective equipment!!
I've got three 4.5in angle grinders 1 has a cut off wheel another has a knotted wire wheel and the third has a grinding wheel so no swapping out disks.
Really great explanation. The first problem I had was getting sunburnt haha, totally didn't expect a wicked sunburn after only a couple days welding. I'm still a beginner and I really appreciate you sharing your experience and what's important in your shop.
I saw a Central Machinery 13" 16 speed drill press on line from Harbor Freight for 299 dollars. that isn't bad. I saw the same shear, break and roller you have from Harbor Freight for 299 dollars as well. Some of the things they sell are actually a good buy!
I have a black and decker grinder and it works great
hes 1000% percent correct thinking out side the box makes a great fabricator!
Awesome man thanks for the video and shopping list!
Hi. Hey I just found your videos, maybe like 3 days ago. They are great. The filming is of great quality. Anyway, I really like this video because your often mentioned that there is not need to start big and that little by little anyone can keep adding to his/her inventory. In addition, I also like the fact that you stressed the need to pay attention to protection. That was great! Thank you!
To testify about starting with very little. . ..
In 2009, with no tools except a philips screwdriver and a couple of clamps that were basically little more than big clothes pins, I made myself a desk from a few pieces of wood and cinderblock I found lying around.
This desk is still my primary desk.
Yeah, it's wood 'work' and not metalwork, but same principle.
Those pliers man... I had no idea they existed either! YEEEAAARRRSSS of self-taught welding later, and I saw you using them in one of your videos and looked em up! Glad i did!
Hey dude i just wanted to say that out of a lot of channels i watch when i am not taking car of my daughter, hanging with the fiance or wrenching under a customers vehicle i love your vlogs. Super informative, awesome cinematography and overall great channel to learn from and just enjoy!! I am pumped to finally be back in a new to me 2012 wrangler and to be able to get back to doing my thing!! Thanks for the great content and keep it going my friend. Looking forward to getting time to work on my own JK as soon as I have a day i am not fixing a customers ride!!
Nice! Congrats on the new ride and thanks for watching 🤘
Nice basic list and presented very well. Good Job!
Thank you!
Some of the best carpenters I ever met only needed a Skil saw a glass of water in a pocket knife and they could build you anything. If you’re on capable of doing it, the tools will make you better, but they’ll never replace your talent.
I think you said it yourself, sounds like we need a shop tour! 👊👍🤙 Keep up the good work bro!
I really appreciate the perspective you are determined to give here👍 Great work as always Nate. Nothing does a better job then a good attitude.
Quick tip for beginners if you have magnets and they have a lot of metal dust and crap stuck to it just grab your wire brush and run it along the edges real quick and it cleans it right off
Great video glad you talked about used tools so many people over look that.
Flux core mig welding is great with some modern welders. I can do alot with mine and it was 200 new. I can buy bottle later and I realised it all about technic
Excellent video..! The best tool is our brain, if theres a will there is always a way... I personally have a Lincoln SP135 110v welder which will do 1/4" with proper prep but I never weld on anything that thick. I built a small utility trailer 2yrs ago with it and was simply amazed at its performance for what it is... I also picked up a prime weld tig welder for an aluminum project I needed built... Learning to TIG aluminum was a challenge indeed but another skill in my tool box... Next project will be a motorized roller about 18" wide for making fire rings etc and yes one day lol a CNC plasma cutter will be built lol
Excellent video! Thank you Nate.
I try to shop around and am always on the lookout for a deal, even on used equipment and tools.
Yard sales
Garage closure sales
Craigslist
NextDoor
Facebook marketplace
Pawn shops
Family hand me downs
For something new that's too expensive for you to pay full upfront costs like a welder or plasma cutter, a lot of stores offer lines of credit (assuming decent credit rating) that you apply for so you can pay over time and still take it home that day. In a lot of those cases you can get no interest financing if paid off within the promotional period. That's how I bought my welder at Lowe's.
You give a lot of good advice on the tools and I love all the videos
Much appreciated mtmy friend 🤘