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Hi Jon. Ya, it's impossible to estimate the total weight of rod used
without more info but basically you can guess at the total weld seam lengths,
and figure a 1/8 inch electrode will lay down a bead about 1-1/2 inches per pass
and you need at least 3 passes for a 1/4 inch hull, 4 for a 3/8 hull, and maybe
5 or 6 for a 1/2 inch hull.
I'm using TIG for all the root passes and cover passes and it's a nice
clean process. Easy to learn and the extra equipment isn't much, but it does
require buying the Argon gas. A simple TIG torch runs about $80 and a flow meter
at $75 so the cost is small. The best part is you can weld stainless and other
stuff with it.
See if the instructor will give you a couple of tips and you could learn
the TIG method by simple trial and error at home once you have the basic stick
skills down.
MIG works good too but it's a little more complicated and requires a
dedicated MIG machine. You've started in the right spot with the stick weld
classes and once you're comfy with it, the other processes are a breeze to
learn.
On another note, I'm zeroing in on the window fix for the boat. I'll start
a new subject line when I resolve the issue but at this point replacing the
window assembly with a thick sleeve looks to be the best solution from an
engineering standpoint. I'm too far along to allow a weak spot like that to
stay. Gotta fix it.
Frank D.
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