You're welding 1/8" metal? First, what size 6011 are you using? 3/32, I hope. 1/8 is way too big for 1/8" metal. I would set it at about 65A; that should be plenty for 3/32 6011, if you're doing it right. I assume you're doing straight, flat welds on 1/8" plate. Keep your arc short, n...

I'm sure there are some numbers to it for travel speed through a weld with a given electrode, at X current, etc. but what it usually comes down to is not going too fast or too slow, but "just right". That's where the art of welding occurs. The science of it (numbers, etc.) is important to...

Use good rods. Lincoln. Lincoln Excalibur if you can get it. Are you using DC? If you're using AC, I assume your rods are 7018AC rods, not just plain 7018. For 1/8" rods, 105-110 amps is plenty. Arc force at 50, helps prevent sticking. DON'T get in the habit of trying to solve problems by turni...

Yeah, I've got 7018 in those orange cans that have been in my garage for 5+ years and it welds just fine. I'm careful to keep the cans snugly closed, and when I need some sticks, I just very briefly open it and take out what I think I'll need.

If you're going uphill, turn your settings down about 10-15%. Focus on the puddle. A lot of guys sort of look at everything, and don't focus. Use a slight looping weave, and focus on the puddle, and keeping it the same size and shape as you go up the joint. As my welding teacher used to say, "b...

There's enough acreage left next to the break to just drill another hole and use that one.

I'm pretty much a beginner too, but I have noticed a dramatic difference between Hobart and Lincoln 7018AC. The Lincoln is much much easier to start (usually on the first scratch) and run. In other rods like 6011 I can't tell any difference. No I do not keep my 7018ac in an oven.