I'm just about finished cleaning up the manifolds I got this spring (thanks Rugrtucker).
When I was picking off the springs etc. prior to degreasing the exhaust manifold, I noticed that the welds from the butterfly to the shaft were weak.
I managed, with minimal Dremmeling, to remove the flap from the shaft, which allowed me to remove the shaft/wheel and thoroughly clean the shaft and bores.
I am getting ready to paint and reassemble everything.
This is more a welding question than anything else, but I'm asking the question here, and not a welding forum, because you guys are all familiar with these flaps, and many of you weld.
I am only just learning to weld (MIG for body work, so far).
My MIG is 90 amps/120v and can weld up to 3/16 when plugged into a 20 amp outlet.
Is it possible to use my welder, or am I going to have to get someone to stick weld it on (or apply some other process with a heavier welder than mine)?
I'm guessing if I preheated the shaft w/a plumber's torch it could be done, but I really have no idea. (none of the literature or media I have reviewed in trying to teach myself to weld has addressed MIG welding dissimilar thicknesses of metal).
I'm also entertaining drilling/tapping machine screw theads in the shaft and installing like a choke or throttle plate. (I suspect the heat cycling makes this a bad idea, and it is why they were welded to begin with).
Please advise.
Also, I plan to use VHT Flameproof cast iron paint. I had removed the surface rust with prep&etch and there is a haze of what I guess must be zinc phosphate. Should I grind/brush/sand that all off, or does it even matter?
Has anyone ever used the VHT clear directly on thier manifold? (VHT reccomends primer, so that seems like a 'no,' but maybe they are just trying to sell an additional can of paint.)
Any input is greatly appreciated as allways.
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