How Did You Weld Your Rideplate Extension?

[johnD]

Tig? Mig? According to my welder, who is using a MIG welder, there is no way to keep the rideplate cold enough so that the o-rings wouldn't melt. How did you guys keep your o-rings from melting? Did you weld in short lengths, let cool then continue the weld? According to my welder, if we do it this way, the weld might not hold very well because according to him he needs the heat to make it hold. What do you guys suggest? Thanks!

John

[rxpstan]

Marine Epoxy will work. It's easiest to use a corner piece of metal that way you have more surface against the ride plate. Don't forget to cut out for the drain hole.

[johnD]

I'm really not confident that the epoxy will hold it in place. Thanks though, any other suggestions?

John

[buddydoo]

My extension was tig welded, but about a 1/4" at a time and use a air gun to cool it off after each 1/4" pass.

[jawz]

I've done it and it must come apart to weld it, It's not hard to take apart just remove...

[buddydoo]

Mine did just fine with the ride plate not being removed.(no problems)

[johnD]

Jawz,

What did you mean come apart? Do you mean splitting the rideplate/heat exchanger in half by removing bolts encircled in this picture? Or did you mean just taking the rideplate off from the hull? Thanks!!

[rxpstan]

The ride plate is very difficult to remove. Why not try Marine epoxy if you don't like it you can knock it back off. The worst is you will loose $2 piece of metal. What if you weld it on and then you don't like it?

[Lurker]

anybody ever try that alumiweld stuff?

http://www.lynnflexo.com/id32.htm