I have started installing patch panels in place of rust holes. This is my first time (making or welding in panels) doing any of this and I am learning as I go along.
This is the hole where I cut the rust out
I used these two pieces to test my mig settings so I would know where to start
The patch in
The patch after a little bit more work.
The second patch
The hole
Letting the welds cool
Welding and ground done
You don't see that
I found out a few things when I was doing this:
1) The magnets that I was using were just not strong enough so I didn't get the patch in just how I would want it and intern it didn't fit just right and required more welding and grinding
2) When it comes to grinding welds an overlapping sanding disc works a lot better than the grinding disc that came with my grinder
3) I wish I had a lift so I didn't have to weld on my back, a shop so I could do it inside in the shade (90 degrees plus long pants and sleeves isn't comfortable) and an auto darkening mask (one day, one day).
It is definitely far from a perfect job (or even a good job) but I am happy with it. It is in a spot that is covered with trim and a little bondo (shhhhh, you didn't hear my say that) will smooth the whole thing out.
