Reply to "Spot weld cutter???"

Hi Larry,
To add to Boss' remarks.... I use "type 2". I have tried a few and find the harbor freight pieces work as well as any other I have tried. Additionally, I grab them for inventory whenever there is a good sale, so they are even cheaper. My bottom line is if lubricated (I just use WD40)and some good force is applied (so they are cutting, not rubbing) I get as good of tooth life out of them as the others. I have found that when you screw up, they all brake..regardless of entry price. They have reversible blades / double sided, and I would guess I get 30 to 40 or so welds cut before it needs flipping/replacing.

I can usually tell when I'm through only the outer layer, but occasionally I will accidentally go through both. I usually see a little puff of dust/rust, or hear a small pop when I get through the outer layer.

I then grind down the old spot weld "disc" for installation of the new piece. In areas that I can't do real spot welding, I will actually use these cutters to make holes in the new panel, and mig weld fill the hole. Once you get into a rhythm, they look respectably close to spot welds.

El cheapo spot weld cutters

When in a bind, I will use the air chisel, however have found it fairly destructive, so don't often resort to this approach.

In the 4042 thread you can see some of this in action. Hope this helps.....