Stick electrode selection help please

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I have a Lincoln Squarewave 175 I picked up awhile ago and have been using it mostly to TIG smaller (much cleaner) things.  My next project is going to be to build a grader drag rake to resurface the gravel part of my driveway.  I have some angle iron and a bucket of used railroad spikes that are to become the tines used to break up the surface of the gravel.  Question - since this doesn't seem like it will be a lot of fun with TIG, can anyone recommend the proper electrode, polarity, and diameter to tackle this?  I have some stick experience, but am by no means an "expert".thanks!Scot
Reply:If it is really dirty I would use 6010 dcrp if clean7018s dcrp either in a 1/8' rod. My prefference would be to make it clean as possible and use the 7018s.
Reply:Yep, do the clean up first, then get after it with the 1/8 7018 @ 120-130 amps. Hope your angle is at least 1/4" thick or more. If not then it probably won't hold up to being dragged thru the gravel for very long. Post up the pics as you go and finished project, I may want one for my driveway.
Reply:Thanks for the input guys!  I'll post up some pix in the project section when it's done.
Reply:Out of idle curiosity would anyone consider hard facing the spikes on the side that gets dragged through the gravel?  I have no idea what kind of steel railroad spikes are made of or if wear is an issue.  wouldn't be if it's just one guy's driveway, but half a summer later all the neighbors have come by to borrow it?
Reply:Hardface rod is typically pricey compaired to 7018,  I'd balance the extra cost  with time in service.  Maybe just build it back up with the 7018
Reply:7018 DC+ (reverse) polarity is the rod for the job as others said.1/8 at 125 amps is what i run or 3/32 rod at 85 amps.Last edited by snoeproe; 03-28-2012 at 07:55 PM.JasonLincoln Idealarc 250 stick/tigThermal Dynamics Cutmaster 52Miller Bobcat 250Torchmate CNC tableThermal Arc Hefty 2Ironworkers Local 720
Reply:Originally Posted by Dan FS71Hardface rod is typically pricey compaired to 7018,  I'd balance the extra cost  with time in service.  Maybe just build it back up with the 7018