Anyone built a DC converter to weld sheet metal

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I have a Miller thunderbolt & Linclon AC welders, both 225A. Ive read you can weld sheet metal using DC - 1/16" 6013 rods, if this is true then I am going to tear out the rectifier section and a choke form a burnt out industrial welder, wire it up as a bridge add the choke and give it a try. Questions is, has anyone ever had any luck converting a AC to DC? Can you really weldsheet metal with DC & 6013 rods? Ive got nothing to loose, have all the parts but still wouldlike to know more before I go to all the trouble to build the converter.
Reply:6011 was designed to weld sheet metal with AC current, I think you would have better luck using those instead of modifying your machine.Have we all gone mad?
Reply:I don't think that you need to do any modifications at all.  Your Miller Thunderbolt is rated to weld 1/16 inch 6013 rods, according to their brochure.   Neither 6010 nor 6011 are good choices for sheet metal, too much penetration, will tend to burn holes in the sheet metal.  6013 is a good rod for sheet metal, lower penetration.  6013 is rated for AC, or either polarity of DC, so no problem there. Buy the 1/16" 6013 rods and try it.  Not a big investment.  You will probably need to keep your travel speed up to avoid burning holes.RichardLast edited by raferguson; 04-02-2010 at 01:02 AM.Sculptures in copper and other metalshttp://www.fergusonsculpture.comSyncrowave 200 Millermatic 211Readywelder spoolgunHypertherm 600 plasma cutterThermal Arc GMS300 Victor OA torchHomemade Blacksmith propane forge
Reply:my thunderbolt was ac/dc isn't yours, and for sheetmetal i would tig not stick, just a thoughtmember of plumbers and pipefitters local 630 lincoln 130 inverter1965 red face sa 200
Reply:Actually I just got it last week but it must be AC, it only has a on/off switch, crank knob on top, three jacks hi,lo and work or ground.  I will say it welds alot smoother than the old Red Linclon 225 buzz box, used it for 40yrs repairing rusted farm implements and done a great job but is no where as smooth as the Miller, even with the same rods & same metal.