Welding Tips and Tricks

Have some small holes I am trying to fill on the bottom of a 12' aluminum boat. Any suggestions on how to get the ground closer to the middle of the bottom where the holes are located. Also what is the best way to secure a thin piece of backing on the opposite side to avoid burn thru?

Just get a good ground as close as possible. You don't have to be right on top of it.

Just put a thick backing bar of copper or stainless steel up to the hull under the holes and weld
the holes up. The backer will keep the puddle from falling out but won't stick to the aluminum.

What about a propane or acetalyne torch to solder aluminum into the hole. It looks easy on u tube.

I agree with the above suggestion. I have used the aluminum solder before on a Grumman canoe, works awesome.

Hell, why not two part epoxy? Chewing gum? Monkey snot? Maybe even duct tape!

Thank you for all suggestions. As I look at u tube it seems that soldering aluminum with torch is the way to go.