3G open root weld problems

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Hey everyone I am taking a advanced arc welding course right now and I am really struggling with my 3G open root weld. We are welding on 3/8 thick plate with a 30 degree bevel using the 6010 rod. I think most of my trouble are coming from viewing the key hole it seems like every position I try to put myself in I am not getting good enough vision on my weld pool. Another question I had is where exactly I should be trying to look for the keyhole in the vertical weld which I think should be just under the electrode. Could anybody give me some advice on the height level in the vice I should put the plate like shoulder height if I were sitting down or chest height any advice would be greatly appreciated thanks.
Reply:Can you post pictures of your weld?What joint prep are you using?Don’t pay any attention to meI’m just a hobbyist!CarlDynasty 300V350-Pro w/pulseSG Spool gun1937 IdealArc-300PowerArc 200ST3 SA-200sVantage 400
Reply:What size is your landing and your gap?Shoot for 3/32" land, 3/32" gap with 1/8" rod of course.
Reply:Your viewing angle really shouldn't matter. For 3-G, I would want to see just below the rod.But when doing 5-G pipe. From 6 to 8, and 6 to 4 you have to look through / around the rod to see the fill. This is where experience comes in, and also listening to the weld. Attached ImagesDon’t pay any attention to meI’m just a hobbyist!CarlDynasty 300V350-Pro w/pulseSG Spool gun1937 IdealArc-300PowerArc 200ST3 SA-200sVantage 400
Reply:Throw the chair away.  You got to do it sometime.  I'm a little older so half the planning is to keep the bright light in my focal length.  You should also be able to move around easily.  Concerned that if you are sitting down you may lose control of your rod angle as you weld up.  Think a comfortable height would top out around your chin.  Are you saying you only have a vice to secure your coupon?  Can you cinch up a vertical angle iron and then tack your plate at a reasonable standing height? Describe your problems.Last edited by OldSparks; 03-15-2014 at 08:11 PM.