Tips for tack welding (Tig)

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I've always struggled with tack welding with a tig machine.  Usually what happens is I step on the pedal, wait 2-3 seconds for the surface to puddle and then dab a piece of filler in the peddle.  Sometimes though, it burns through because I have to wait too long for the puddle to form.  It eventually works but usually takes a few tries.When tacking, should the heat be turned up much more than when you're running regular beads?  Are you supposed to wait so long when just tacking?  I've also tried just resting a piece of filler rod in the place where I want the tack to be and then firing the torch but that doesn't work well either.Thanks.
Reply:Jeff,    I usually have the max output amperage set a litlle higher than what I need at all times no matter what. That way I can throttle in a little more heat if I need to.  I assume you are still working with sheet metal. This is where the silicon bronze rod works well, too. The lower melting point allows you to make tacks in the steel a lot easier than mild fillers, especially if you're not used to working with thin metals.  When I make a tack weld on sheet metal, I start the arc, ramp up quickly, and add the filler while I'm still increasing the amperage. This helps avoid burn through and spreads the tack weld out. Get into it and get out of it, quick.  Hope this helps... - Paulhttp://all-a-cart.comWelding Cart Kits and accessories
Reply:Jemo,Not sure what equipment you have howeve mine has a "spot weld" setting where you can program a specific amperage and time to similate a spot weld for a tack.  Once it is dialed in it works great and is repeatable.  I had the same problem when tacking thin stainless sheets and that solve my problem.  Maybe your unit has a similar feature.
Reply:When I tack weld, I begin just like I would if I were going to lay a full bead. Don't try to stay in one little spot, just start laying a bead and stop after 1/4".
Reply:i go around in circles...kinda difficult to explane..showing is a whole lot easier..but it does have a whole lot to do with how good you are with your throttle pedal......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:jemo,I'm with 383bigblock on the tacking issue.  A spot weld timer is super, but if you don't have one, try setting the current a good bit higher than needed for welding and give the foot pedal a quick tap to produce your spot weld.See this old thread for more on the subject.  Hope this helps.http://www.weldingweb.com/vbb/showthread...=tig+spot+weld
Reply:Thanks everyone.  I'll give it a try.  I forgot to mention, I have a Lincoln PT 185.  I've only been welding since Jan of this year so I've got lots to learn!  That timer thing sounds great but mine doesn't seem to have it.Jeff