Question about welding repair parts on first gen

[im4u2nvss]

I am about ready to start doing sheet metal repairs on my 67 Firebird(complete floor, one side rocker repair, exc). It looks like the insides of my factory rockers, along with some other parts are galvanized. My question is, how have some of you prepped these galvanized areas for welding(butt, spot)? I am trying to avoid the "fume fever" if at all possible, and want to know the best method. I asked a friend who restored a 67 years ago and he said "Dont worry, alot of people restore 1st gens and are still alive to talk about it(including himself)". I did buy a miller Respirator https://www.millerwelds.com/safety/respirators/respirators-half-mask , I am unsure if this is overkill. I have done my fair share of welding over the years, but never old car sheet metal. And as I age, I "care" more about safety/protection, as I want to enjoy watching my kids grow up. Any advise would be more then appreciated. :hail:

[raustinss]

as someone whos had metal fume fever it isnt fun . A respirator would not do you any harm and certainly isnt overkill. if you can position a small house fan in the vacinity to help move any smoke from your work area but, not directly in the area where it could blow away your shielding gas .

[ADiCarlo]

Protection is never overkill... You only get one life.


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[im4u2nvss]

Thanks for the response. I guess my question is, how are people prepping the surface? Removing some of the coating from metal before welding? I know there are many people and shops on this site who do it. Could some of you give me advice? Thanks

[rjardy]

muriatic acid will strip the galvanized coating off. Then soap and water. Respirator is a must, when using the acid and may as well keep it on for welding.


-Rob

[raustinss]

a cheaper way is to gring or sand it off but same you will still want a respirator while you do that and watch where you shoot the sparks so to say ...you dont want to aim them towards your beer

[trevor572]

Hi, on top of all the other suggestions. Have a glass of milk before you start and on occasion during the day. It's said to leave a coating in your throat. Employers here years ago were obligated to supply milk for employees to drink when carrying out that kind of work. Cheers.

[raustinss]

Hi, on top of all the other suggestions. Have a glass of milk before you start and on occasion during the day. It's said to leave a coating in your throat. Employers here years ago were obligated to supply milk for employees to drink when carrying out that kind of work. Cheers.

I have the highest training this country offers for metal fab but this is one of those old school tips that just can't and isn't taught, not sure if it works but I'd say again....can't do any harm right

[im4u2nvss]

Still wondering what the "standard" is when welding on these older body panels. I have looked thru countless DSE builds in there project section, along with many build threads throughout this site and never see, or read about wearing respirators when welding on these old car bodys.

muriatic acid will strip the galvanized coating off.

Not sure I would want to add another Toxic item to the job. If the grinding/sanding the coating back is just as good.

Again, thanks to everyone for there input.

[Rod P]

just grind off the zinc from the area to be welded, about an inch or so from the weld point, its all good then...

[im4u2nvss]

just grind off the zinc from the area to be welded, about an inch or so from the weld point, its all good then...

Thanks, this is what I was thinking of doing in the first place. And like others have said, may as well throw on the respirator for good measure.