custom stainless bumpers
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Senior User
Joined: Aug 2004
Posts: 195
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From: wisconsin
custom stainless bumpers
I have a 1980 f-250 that will eventually become a stepside and want to custom make some stainless steel bumpers. The problem is that most articles I find are on customising stock bumpers or making them out of reg. steel. I need help on where to begin. Can I weld stainless with either a mig or stick welder or does it require a tig welder. If I weld it can i polish the blueing around the weld away or will the weld show no matter what. What would be the best type of stainless to get with out having to high a steel content so that I don't have to keep polishing rust away everytime the bumper gets wet. Any other opinions would be great.
Fleet Mechanic
Joined: Jul 2004
Posts: 1,988
Likes: 14
From: Travelers Rest SC
You can weld stainless with a mig; make sure you have the right wire. You may need a different gas mixture for best results; ask a welding supplier. I like 304 stainless; it is easily bendable, available in many shapes, and it welds like a dream. It's what they use for sailboat fittings. You want a stainless with a high chromium content; that's what makes it stainless. Just polish out any heat discoloration. 304 is difficult to machine, tho'. Use low RPM, high pressure, and some oil if you need to cut it or drill it.
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ocdmachine
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May 2, 2004 12:51 PM
