Collecting and restoring classics cars requires more skills than simply knowing a lot about automobiles. When you need to form a strong bond between two metal pieces to complete auto body repairs, MIG welding is your best option. Car restorations can utilize several different welding methods, but MIG is the go-to for many collectors.
Welding requires a focus on safety and preparation, but the benefits make learning this process well worth the effort. Below, we’ll break down exactly why MIG welding is useful for car restorations.
Simplicity
First and foremost, MIG welding is great for newcomers because, out of all the welding methods, it is the easiest to learn. To be clear, just because MIG welding is relatively easy to learn, that doesn’t mean restorationists using this method should lack immense safety and care.
However, honing your welding skills is best done with MIG welding. If you try to learn the ropes through TIG welding, the road to success will be much more difficult and frustrating. Luckily, MIG welding’s ease-of-use doesn’t come at the cost of work quality. In other words, using the simplest welding method can still help you produce high-quality results.
Speed
Another great advantage of MIG welding is its efficiency. TIG welding produces clean, attractive final products. That said, TIG adds more time to your restoration. Sure, that extra time will yield great results if you’re proficient in TIG welding, but you can still get good results in a shorter time span.
Similar to the point above, MIG welding produces great results in a shorter timeframe than TIG processes. Restoring cars can take ample time as it is, so the opportunity to shorten the process without compromising quality is worth taking. Eventually, you may consider learning how to TIG weld, but focusing on MIG welding first will help you learn the basics without adding excessive time to your restoration.
Versatility
The final reason why MIG welding is useful for car restorations is its versatility. MIG welding has its limits, but this process can work successfully with two metals that are prominent in the automotive industry—aluminum and steel. Both metals require unique precautions and practices, but MIG welding techniques can help you work on aluminum and steel without an issue. Make sure to research the proper techniques for the specific metal you’re working on—preparation varies from weld to weld.
In fact, when getting into welding, you should really dive into the nitty-gritty details, such as how to select filler metals. Having a thorough understanding of each material and process involved in MIG welding will help car collectors use this method safely and successfully.