Yeah, when I burned through that piece, the slag that dropped/popped hit my leg and had me jumping. I need to make a proper work surface with a vice. I was using a jack stand base with a crescent wrench to hold those pieces... <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/rolleyes.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/lol.gif" alt="" />

The machine is nice, Reuben. I only bought it after selling that home theater I had taking up space. I only got about half of what I paid for it, but it was almost enough to cover the buzz box, and I'm definitely glad I took the plunge. Regarding gas, I could've bought a bottle for $160 yesterday (the welder came with solid wire) but thought I'd better practice by burning through a 2lb spool of Praxair house flux core wire. I'll get there.

Larry, first I thought you were going to say "stretchy polyester spandex", and I'm glad you didn't. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/lol.gif" alt="" />

Thanks for all the comments.

Tag, sorry I've hijacked your thread.