i've got an old Miller Thunderbolt(AC only) I want to sell, but while I was told it worked, I really have no idea if it does. I know nothing about welders either. I got the leads, sticks and a 220 receptacle to plug it into. Any easy way verify it works? Thanks.
Testing a stick welder.
- Thread starter CTyankee
- Start date
2mJps
Well-known member
I cant remember seeing a welder like this that didnt work why dont you try it out? We have one like it at work i have worked as a welder most of my life and i can say that is the worst welder i have ever used.
Jack84
Well-known member
LOL...Do I just clamp the one lead to a piece of metal and touch the rod to the same piece? Again...I never used one before.
Got Youtube?
Jack84
Well-known member
Yeah, close your eyes though. Firmly. Or use a welding hood. [emoji51]
80 to 90 amps should do. Don't weld thin sheet metal.
You clamp the ground clamp whatever you are welding on, the other clamp to the welding stick, which you lightly touch the end to the metal you hold it close to the metal to draw an arc, then guide along the joints you are welding together.You should have on welding helmet with the correct shield glass in it that you see thru.
Shadowdog500
Well-known member
Yes! If the rod sticks to the metal you know it works! LOL!
Since you never struck an arc before that is what will most likely happen. When/if it does quickly release the rod from the stinger to stop the current flow. Chris
Last edited:
AS556
Well-known member
In before OP becomes livid he can't stop sticking the rod
Success! Managed to stick the rod numerous times to a piece of angle iron. My welding days..or should I say seconds are over. Took awhile ..had to direct wire it...Plug and receptacle didn't pair up. So to summarize...welder works, I still can see...and have a guy picking it up tomorrow for $100. Thanks guys.