OM-272989 Page 56
SECTION 10
−
STICK WELDING (SMAW) GUIDELINES
10-1. Stick Welding Procedure
stick 2015 - 04
−
151 593
!
Weld current starts when
electrode touches work-
piece.
!
Weld current can damage
electronic parts in vehicles.
Disconnect both battery
cables before welding on a
vehicle. Place work clamp
as close to the weld as
possible.
.
Always wear appropriate per-
sonal protective clothing.
1
Workpiece
Make sure workpiece is clean be-
fore welding.
2
Work Clamp
Place as close to the weld as
possible.
3
Electrode
Before striking an arc, insert an
electrode in the electrode holder. A
small diameter electrode requires
less current than a large one. Fol-
low recommendations of the elec-
trode manufacturer when setting
weld amperage (see Section
Insulated Electrode Holder
5
Electrode Holder Position
6
Arc Length
Arc length is the distance from the
electrode to the workpiece. A short
arc with correct amperage will give
a sharp, crackling sound. Correct
arc length is related to electrode di-
ameter. Examine the weld bead to
determine if the arc length is cor-
rect.
Arc length for 1/16 and 3/32 in. dia-
meter electrodes should be about
1/16 in. (1.6 mm); arc length for 1/8
and 5/32 in. electrodes should be
about 1/8 in. (3 mm).
7
Slag
Use a chipping hammer and wire
brush to remove slag. Remove
slag and check weld bead before
making another weld pass.
1
4
3
5
2
7
6
Tools Needed:
Equipment Needed:
Constant Current
Welding Power Source