Oxy/Acetylene & el-cheapo flux-core on 4130 (Newbie question)

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This is mostly a convenience issue, and TIG is not in my future – but can I use my HF flux-core to tack 4130 (non-certificated aircraft) and then follow up with the gas once everything is in place?In the non-welding community I hear it both ways.  Notwithstanding the modest spatter I get (consequences of my everlasting ineptitude), does anyone know if tacking with the flux core “contaminates” the union, or when I go back with the O/A does it all become one anyway with the usual concerns of stress relieving.  I regularly use my little HF flux-core for small mild steel projects, and am comfortable (albeit slow) with O/A on the 4130 -- primarily I’m welding 3/8-5/8” tubing with 0.035 wall, small amount of 0.049.Thanks…Larry-- Virginia
Reply:I cannot answer your original question, but I am curious as to why you wouldn't just tack with the OA?Kevin / Machine_Punk from The Aerodrome Studio - Lincoln PowerMIG 210 MP - Meco N Midget w/custom welding station - Vintage Victor 100Current Projects: The Aerodrome Studio
Reply:Originally Posted by dcstrngThis is mostly a convenience issue, and TIG is not in my future – but can I use my HF flux-core to tack 4130 (non-certificated aircraft) and then follow up with the gas once everything is in place?In the non-welding community I hear it both ways.  Notwithstanding the modest spatter I get (consequences of my everlasting ineptitude), does anyone know if tacking with the flux core “contaminates” the union, or when I go back with the O/A does it all become one anyway with the usual concerns of stress relieving.  I regularly use my little HF flux-core for small mild steel projects, and am comfortable (albeit slow) with O/A on the 4130 -- primarily I’m welding 3/8-5/8” tubing with 0.035 wall, small amount of 0.049.Thanks
Reply:Thanks All, that’s what I was afraid of… I can tack with O/A and have done much of it that way, but the gymnastics of flipping a switch and just pulling the trigger seemed appealing… I agree, I’ll refrain from the temptation and continue to try to “stack the deck” in my favor – since eventually I hope to drive this thing…Appreciate it…Larry-- Virginia