welding aluminum with stick?

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Is it possible to weld aluminum with an AC-225 stick. I have done some research and I have found that some say you can and some say you cant. If its possible what electrode should be used? Any help would be appreciated.Trevor MarkwellDumpster Repair Demon
Reply:I have heard it's possible, but not easy to make quality aluminum welds with SMAW (stick welding).  A quick search brought up Harris alloy #26.http://www.harrisproductsgroup.com/c...ory=alum_electGive it a go, and let us know how it works.
Reply:A couple of years ago a guy gave me 3 Al welding rods.  Ran them.  I have pictures but my attachment button won't work.The beads were not pretty, though no problem with burn through or adhesion.  They are a mess to clean up after.  The flux is like that of brazing.  I don't know how good they can get since I only had three rods.  Ran it reverse polarity.  Too much current and spatter the size of pea size hail flies and hits you in the top of the head.I ask my vendor to let me try them and he gave them to me.
Reply:Well, it looks like I will have to go down to airgas and see what they have, thanks for the help!Trevor MarkwellDumpster Repair Demon
Reply:I've used the Lincoln Aluminum stick rod, and it sure does make a mess. I think you can only run it DCRP, and it burns REAL fast. You'll get about 3"-4" per rod. It's inexpensive, so that's a plus. Not the prettiest, but if you're outside and in a jam, it'll work. Other companies also carry it, and it welds nicer, but it's pricey. I think you are out of luck on AC though.----john
Reply:Only good for horzontal beads, out of position is a no-no. I wouldn't expect much with an a/c welder, AL should be welded d/c reverse polarity. I've done it and had no problems. Good luck!Last edited by Clanweld; 01-21-2007 at 11:31 AM.If you don't have the time to do it right, then you definitely don't have the time to do it over.
Reply:welding aluminum with a stick,   will make you go buy a tig in a hurry.
Reply:I once repaired an aluminum chainsaw handlebar with a stick welder,  also an aluminum cattle trailer,  works pretty good, but you have to use DCEN it can lay a pretty nice bead.  Just keep the amps down and make sure your metal is CLEAN.  as for taking the flux off, yea that sucks a little acid and a wire brush does the trick