Learning to TIG weld

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Hi. I came to your forum because I have been unsuccessful in finding TIG welding classes in Miami. I would like to learn how to weld for purposes of hot rod building and some marine fabrication (stainless, aluminum, steel). There are no sources for welding education for hobbyists in Miami. The only thing I could find was a full time school, which obviously does not suit my needs.I was hoping someone on your forum may know someone in the area that would be willing to give private instruction for a fee.I was wondering also if the forum members felt that it is possible to become somewhat proficient by using text books/instructional videos and a TIG welding machine. I have tackled many difficult technical skills in this manner, but I consider TIG welding to be one that may need live training.Any advice would be greatly appreciated.
Reply:I teach a FREE class..But it's in Mass..Oh well.....zap!I am not completely insane..Some parts are missing Professional Driver on a closed course....Do not attempt.Just because I'm a  dumbass don't mean that you can be too.So DON'T try any of this **** l do at home.
Reply:But werent you gonna take a vacation down in the keys next year zap??Just kidding.Dont know anyone down in florida.  I cant believe the local community college or tech school doesnt have adult education stuff like welding.  Freaks me out.  You can learn to weld and run a bead with tig really easy, the manuals come with basic setup instructions and starting parameters.  Modding up a car takes alot more than knowing how to weld though.  Post pics of your welds here and you will get excellent critique and advise.  In a nutshell, its not as hard as it sounds to get started, just takes money.  But, to do things out of position, corners, working the pedal with an elbow, ear, butt, that kinda stuff is what makes tigging interesting... Zaps a pro at it as alot of others on this forum.  Some of em could write books and perhaps they would title it 'Welding Secrets' by so and so  .   In all seriousness, if you are serious about learning, get a machine, read the directions, practice, ask questions here, post pics of problems your having and in no time, youll be responding to posts like this one telling another guy how to get started.Various GrindersVictor Journeyman torch200cf Acet. 250cf oxygenLincoln 175 plus/alpha2 gunLincoln v205t tigLincoln 350mpEsab 650 plasmaWhen you can get up in the morning, Its a good day.Live each day like its your last.
Reply:I'll help ya..But a good digital camera is a must have.. We need pics.. ...zap!I am not completely insane..Some parts are missing Professional Driver on a closed course....Do not attempt.Just because I'm a  dumbass don't mean that you can be too.So DON'T try any of this **** l do at home.
Reply:Books will give you all the tech info that you need and they will explain the how of Tig welding but to see different techniques maybe you want to look to educational videos.... At the least you have a visual to guide you._________________Chris
Reply:Thanks for your advice. I will do just that. I have the text books and I am planning to buy a video that sounds good. The type of welding I want to do is not complex, mostly stainless exhaust work and some bracket work on the chasis. I will post my questions and photos when I get started. Thanks for being so receptive. BTW, the community college and high school system had the courses but have dismantled them. Our system is over crowded and under funded. They are dismantling most of the "shop" programs, as a result.
Reply:Wow, Its probably heading my way.  Sounds like youve got a game plan though.  For chassis work and hard to reach spots, mig might be an option.Various GrindersVictor Journeyman torch200cf Acet. 250cf oxygenLincoln 175 plus/alpha2 gunLincoln v205t tigLincoln 350mpEsab 650 plasmaWhen you can get up in the morning, Its a good day.Live each day like its your last.
Reply:I thoght about that but I only want to buy one machine and it seems that a TIG is more versatile. So far, my plans do not involve much hard to reach tasks. It is going to be a frame off project with a professionally desined and built chasis (Shwartzperformance.com).
Reply:Many welders that work in shops also do work on the side. Why can't that work be some lessons for you? Call it consulting. Why don't you go to a few shops and ask around?A man who can't weld is as poorly educated as a woman who can't sew
Reply:If you have mechanical aptitude, don't worry about learning it on your own. It (TIG) is made out to be much more difficult than it really is, in my opinion.- John
Reply:Originally Posted by runchmanIf you have mechanical aptitude, don't worry about learning it on your own. It (TIG) is made out to be much more difficult than it really is, in my opinion.- John
Reply:Did you try the American Welding Society school locator?http://www.aws.org/w/sense/search_usa.htmlgood luck.-----------------------Carmen Electrodewww.CarmenElectrode.comand the boss blogs at  www.JoeWelder.comall powered by  www.Arc-Zone.com
Reply:You might try a welding supply outfit.  There's a big Miller dealer here in Indy that has a basic class for four hours a night once a week.  Different process for different weeknights.  It may be worth checking out locally where you are.  But these guys in here are definitely knowledgeable, experienced and very generous with their wits.  If you don't show your *** they'll be glad to impart their wisdom!  Good Luck.