Stoody 31 in cold weather

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Today was 10 degrees F and I tried to hardface a bucket with Stoody 31. It would not hold arc like it used to in the summer. Instead of liquid puddle I kept getting mushy and sticky substance. The bucket itself was already warmed up from prior welding with 6011 which worked great in this temperature. I tried two sizes of Stoody 31 with the same result. The smaller one is rated up to 120 amps and I cranked it up to 150 amps. Arc improved but still not welding like it should and electrode started overheating and bending. I even tried flipping polarity- things only got worse.Did anybody use Stoody 31 in cold weather with any success? Or maybe my electrodes just need some baking?
Reply:Originally Posted by DEMToday was 10 degrees F and I tried to hardface a bucket with Stoody 31. It would not hold arc like it used to in the summer. Instead of liquid puddle I kept getting mushy and sticky substance. The bucket itself was already warmed up from prior welding with 6011 which worked great in this temperature. I tried two sizes of Stoody 31 with the same result. The smaller one is rated up to 120 amps and I cranked it up to 150 amps. Arc improved but still not welding like it should and electrode started overheating and bending. I even tried flipping polarity- things only got worse.Did anybody use Stoody 31 in cold weather with any success? Or maybe my electrodes just need some baking?
Reply:Nope, no fresh rod. I opened the 10 lb package a few months ago and put them all into a plastic container that has a rubber ring under the cap. It was stored in a shipping container so basically cold last couple months.
Reply:I have had good luck storing Stoody 31 and welding in the cold.  (18 below in Pinedale, WY)  Were you running flat or vert?