To many of you this might seem foolish. I on the other hand accept the challenge. I have minimal welding experience, well, none unless soldering counts. I recently bought a LE 140 MIG to have around the house and perhaps for my neighbors as well

I want to weld the the gussets myself. I have read many posts including the excellent write-up at http://project-jk.com/jeep-jk-write-...cement-gussets

The bottom line is slow, alternate, and keep them cool . . . no rushing!!

I am very handy and will definately lay down a few beads to make sure I can make this happen (I also own a grinder just in case).

My biggest concern when welding these under a vehicle chassis is connecting the ground. Where is the best place? I know close is the best for current to flow and close the circuit but can I connect it to the Upper or Lower C. I thought I read somewhere that was not good location (but can't remember where)? Is there any concern about wrecking any circuitry? Shouls I disconnect the battery? Should I run away from doing this myself?

Thanks!!
RedBeast

 

Ground as close to the welding area as possible. Does not have to right on top but within is foot or so is ideal.

Any metal item that is in contact to the axle will be perfectly fine. We typically will use the front swaybar tab or coil mount.

Clean the area from all paint where the ground is placed.

Get gussets fully seated in the correct location and tack weld all 4 corners first before welding any long passes.

Yes, disconnect both terminals of the battery before welding. This may make some lights come on in the dash after you put everything back together as the computer reboots. Should go away after you cycle the key a few times.

Slow, alternate and cool.

Good DIY welding job on your JK. Would be tough to mess up.

EVO...

 

Andrew, thanks for finding me on this post, I appreciate the tips!! I figure the best way to learn something is to do it. And if something goes wrong, well, my wife and I can carpool.

 

Let us know how you do. How high are u able to lift your jeep in the air? I would think it would be difficult to crawl under and weld.

 

I will keep you posted. I have jack stands that go up about two feet. Just about enough to sit and "try and weld". This will be interesting and I will post some pictures, well maybe? Depends on the outcome Hopefully the gussets come this weekend!!

 

Great point Dirtman!! Thanks

 

practice on some scrap first, even if you've welded in the past (highschool shop maybe), its a good idea to lay a few beads before you touch your jeep. good luck though, show some pics when you're done.

 

Gussets are an easy welding project, but u NEED to pay attention to the heat the balljoint gets.
We we're careful with mine and they, shortly after, went to crap.
We did mine with a small welder, with no gas n there solid!

 

I just found out the gussets are on back order . . . 3 weeks

I have practiced a bit and realized I need to add a 30amp breaker


Stay tuned for pics . . . at some point