What's better for __ stick/mig?

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Hi all - newbee here and almost to welding. I used to work in a machine shop and did a little stick welding but nothing great. Anyway, I am wanting to build a utlity trailer using square/rectanglar tubing with 1/8 wall. What would you suggest to weld with for the utmost strength? Size will be something around 6x10 or 12 and using a 3500 axle and will likely load it.Suggestions on welder, rod, (wire) and any others appreciated.RB
Reply:It all depends on the mode of transfer for mig. If you use 7018 to weld it has the same tensile stregth values as ER70S . I build traailers at work and they are welded using mig and fluxcore. I mig everything except for the axwl mounts. Why I use flux core on the axels is to get the same penetration as flux core you would have to use a spray transfer wqith mig. I would use mig because it is so much faster. and for the parts you are woried about like the axels you can always stick weld them.I use ER70S-6 For mig and Lincolns 71M outersheild wire for flux core.hope this helps
Reply:Thanks weldengineer. Not knowing ANYTHING about mig and looking to go the cheap route, I got a 225AC from Wal-Mart of all places. Cost $238 and they had 7018 rod at clearance for 5 bucks a box so I bought'em all.  lolDid my electrical today and ran a few beads on some scrap that looked purtty good for not welding in several years.Now another question. Without going into details, where I'm welding I need to protect the flooring. I have looked at blankets but they are expensive. I know this sounds real dumb but I was thinking of using plywood. Since it's mostly to control splatter and I'll be keeping a close eye out, think it'd be ok? Maybe I could coat it with something? Or any other material ideas - think cheap!thanksrb
Reply:Plywood should be fine. The funny thing is if you coat it with oil it usually will not burn sealants do realy well also. good luckChase
Reply:Hardy Board. It's a backer board for tile. Sort of like a cement board. Should work well for a small area and fire proof.
Reply:Never heard of hardy board but just what I'm looking for! Its called hardi panel by James Hardie and is 5/16x4x8 sheets, used for house siding - great stuff it seems. I might even use it for it's intended use since that's another project .. onea these days.Anymore cart pics?thanks to all,rb