welding amperage help

[SlvrdoHDmax]

Just got a new Hobart stickmate 205 and i need to figure out what amperage settings i should use from 16 gauge and thicker. Just a general range or somewhere to start because i know it will probably vary with different electrode types. the welder goes from 30 amps up to 205 in 1 amp increments. i used the search bar and couldnt find anything and have also tried google.

[AcezHi]

I'd start out at 100amp, with small diameter rod. Adjust from there depending on how its working for you.

[wsigo]

also just practice on some scrap, of the same thickness as what you will be working with. that's the best way to see what will work and what won't

[SlvrdoHDmax]

alright thanks for the help. ive got a mower project and need to weld some 16 gauge tubing so i guess i will go with a 1/16 6013 rod to try and keep from burning through. Either that or i will try and find some thicker tubing. only place ive checked is Buchheits (farm supply store) and 16 was the only kind they had. there are several scrap places around here so i imagine it would be a lot cheaper and have more selection.

[retired wrench]

I doubt that you will have much luck welding 16 Ga.with a stick welder. RW

[NEUMANNZZ]

go here:
http://www.metalwebnews.com/howto/weldrod.html

[SlvrdoHDmax]

well i tried it out today with some 3/32 rods i had and set it on 30 amps. it was pretty hard to strike an arc so i cranked it up to 40 amps and it worked fine. I didnt burn through but definitely got good penetration.