FCAW

Please tell me you reset the polarity. MIG and Dual-shield run DC electrode Positive. Self-Shielded Flux-core runs DC Electrode Negative

This is a common error for when you are not used to running flux-core.

Oddly enough, I've heard nonstick cooking spray helps. --Glenn Lyford

I have not run any wire yet, but am aware of the polarity difference. Past that, I was just wondering. I have to haul my machine up on top of my containers to do a lot of this welding, and leaving the bottle on the deck would help. I'd just like to do it with minimal cleanup. Still not sure about the question of is this too hot for .065" tubing. The welds would be on the shoulders of the tube.

Steve

We've run a lot of flux core on 1" x .065" using .030" flux core wire on a cheap 120 volt import welder for one off frames that do not need to be quite perfect. These are end to edge type joints, works ok. You get the usual problem with burning away the exposed end and blowing it out.

The flux core runs a lot more like stick welds than normal Mig wire. Likes some higher open circuit voltage that is not usually available, then drop to a much lower voltage/current to do the weld.

Suspect you will be able to do what you want with the .035 but don't expect pretty. If you don't want the bring the bottle and still do it right, use the PAM vegetable oil spray liberally on the whole area, then get some .030" wire and a fresh contact tip.

Any chance you could get/rig an extension hose to leave the bottle someplace out of the way??

There is an aerosol anti-spatter available at welding supply stores, which does help a lot. I heard after I'd bought a can that it's the same stuff as non-stick cooking sprays, which bolsters what you've heard. When I need a new can I'll see which is cheaper.

I wound up with 2 cases of the stuff. Works well enough with flux core.

Whenever a Liberal utters the term "Common Sense approach"....grab your wallet, your ass, and your guns because the sombitch is about to do something damned nasty to all three of them.