The real difference between MIG and TIG 2

[Goody]

I am due to start working on a rather rusty Mini, which is in need of a few panels replacing.

I have had experience of Arc welding and braising, but as I understand the best tool for car bodywork is either MIG or TIG.

I have not bought a welder yet.

Could someone please suggest which unit they would use, and a brief explanation of the main differences between MIG and TIG, as I have been told conflicting stories (some people say that TIG is easier to use than MIG, and some say the other way!).

Thanks in advance for your help.

Darren.

 

[butelja]

In my experience, MIG is definitely much easier to master. TIG welding has a much more precise control of heat input, but generally requires much more effort to master. In the hands of someone who is good at both MIG and TIG, the TIG welding can produce better results on good metal. However, I'm not sure about welding rusty metal with TIG.

 

[Ron]

MIG (Old name..Metal Inert Gas) is the GMAW (Gas Metal Arc Welding) process. Unfortunately this process produces a broad arc which makes welding on thin sheet metal a bit tricky, but do-able. As Butelja says, much more control over heat input with TIG (Old name...Tungsten Inert Gas), now GTAW (Gas Tungsten Arc Welding).

A "cheap" substitute for TIG is Oxy-Acetylene Torch welding. This process is very good for thin sheet metal, and can double as a cutting torch, so you get more for your money in the equipment. I would suggest using a flux coated rod for filler instead of the usual "wire coat hanger". Ideally you would have a MIG setup and a cutting torch with a welding torch head attachment. This would give you a lot of versatility.

With either.....practice, practice, practice!!

As a veteran of several MGB restorations, you might also practice brazing. This is handy for some repair work, and the only way to accomplish others.

 

[Goody]

Thanks chaps for all your help.

It has certainly cleared up several points for me.

Darren.

 

[stinkefete]

goody,
the whole purpose of MIG was to minimise heat input to sheet metal,dip transfer allows the least heat input to the job, and the process would be used almost exclusively in panel shops worldwide.it is cheap to setup too,as opposed to TIG which is an expesive way to go,and the other thing about TIG is, it is very unforgiving, whereas with MIG you can fill up holes, etc easily, just pull the trigger on the handpiece.Both use gas for shield, although you can use flux cored wires which may not need shielding gas.
good luck with your restoration,post if you need any further advice.
STINKEFETE

 

buy a 110v mig unit with self shielding flux cored wire