The odds are good that you aren't Chip Foose or Jimmy Shine, and short of a camera crew getting lost in your neighborhood and discovering you lying under your hot rod, you're never going to be either of those guys. That's OK. The world doesn't need another TV hero fabricator. But why should a lack of celebrity stop you from building cool stuff at home? If anything, a lack of skill should be the only thing getting in the way of your next stellar mod, and that's a problem easily remedied with instruction, patience, practice, and the right tools. In our June '11 issue ("Your First Burner," pg. 74), we showed you the entry-level equipment for Metal Inert Gas (MIG) welding success. Now we're here to lend a little skill that will transform you from a booger-welding punk to a capable metal sticker. You won't master MIG welding just by reading this article, as we're only giving you basic tips for fixin' or fabricatin' the most common steel structures found on your hot rod. An in-person tutorial is necessary if you choose to really master all the different intricacies of MIG welding. But this will get you started.
Leather gloves, fire-resistant sleeves, and a good-quality face shield will not only keep you out of the emergency room, but they’ll make you more comfortable when welding.
