Beginner question: possible to fry electronics of what your working on?

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I tried searching for this answer, but not much luck, probably not using the right search terms.  Anyways, I'm wondering, when doing repairs on machinery with a welder, is it likely that faraway piece of electronics could be damaged?For example, is it safe to weld on the frame or body of a car, or could some of that current possibly go astray and damage the ecu, radio, etc?I'm planning on welding a small tab back on a wheelchair lift on a van.  It is not a structural thing, or anything that will present any danger if broken (its been broken for a while), it just helps things go into place smoothly.  Its a very simple little fix, but wasn't sure if it would be safe to weld with it still attached to the van, or if I have to dismantle and remove the piece first (would be a big pain) Since the lift itself has some simple electronics in the hydraulic control box about 4 feet away, and of course all the engine components in the van.
Reply:Topic comes up a lot - Thanks for at least trying to use the search feature.  There is an active thread about this right now:http://weldingweb.com/vbb/showthread.php?t=57745I disconnect whenever practical.More important to me, is a good clean ground, as close as possible, that is BETWEEN where I am welding, and any electronics.  Sometimes the best ground in the world won't do you any good, if it is poorly placed.Hope it helps.Later,Jason