In the last episode we had successfully welded both the floor panels to the cab framework. However, there was this three quarter inch gap between the panels that needed to be filled.
The first task was to fabricate the filler piece. I started with a piece of sheet metal and cut it into a strip the correct length and width. Next, I started bending it into the proper shape with my pliers and other pieces of metal. This is Hillbilly fabrication in action.
I clamped it into place and was about to start welding when I remembered the advice from Chuck _inDurham, he wrote a welding primer and said, “he always does some practice welds before he starts on the real welding”. I dutifully spent 15 minutes practicing on an old fender. This allowed me to dial in the voltage and wire feed rate. It turns out the difference between not enough penetration and blowing holes is very small. It also got my grove going on how fast to move the torch.
With the part clamped in place I started with the tack welds, placing them about an inch apart and alternating the welds to avoid any warping. Next I started filling in the gaps, being careful to let the welds cool so as to not warp the panel. In between, I would grind down the welds and repeat the process. I only had one blow out and easily filled it.
The next thing I knew the welding and grinding was done. The last step was to used my two-inch angle grinder with a sanding disk to smooth it all out. I would give myself a C+ on this job, which is a great improvement over the F- on my previous try at Butt welding.
The next thing I did was screw down the transmission cover plate and put in the battery cover plate. Dayum, the cab floor is starting to look real pretty.
Today was one of those days that energize you to come back to the shop again. I can’t wait.
