This seems like a good question to break in the new forum :)

After doing some researching, I've decided I'd like to attempt a build of an RC Rock Crawler. I'd like to build the frame for it out of 3/16 tubing. What equipment would I need to braze with? I'm assuming some sort of torch? Which would be best? Also What's reccomended for brazing rods? Now for the big question....is this something I can pick up at Home Depot, or Sears Hardware?

Thanks in advance for any insight.

Rich

Both HD and Sears should have brazing kits that would include the torch and a few different types of rods. That should get you started in the right direction.

I taught myself. Bought a cheap oxy / acetelene torch $240 plus about $40 to get the tanks filled. and went at it. I put this chassis together from 3/4" mild steel tubing. It has a long way to go but as far as the brazing is concerned it's a lot like soldering. The type of torch you need is dependent on the type of brazing you want to do. Look around there are different types of torches, and a lot of different temperature ranges for filler materials. The Chassis is for an unlimited soapbox derby car I'm building for a race in the spring. I had good luck using a butane torch and solder working with brass tubing You just have to be careful not to overheat a previous joint when you make a new one. Brazing is all about learning to control the heat.

http://soapbox.home.bresnan.net/CVMCHAS.JPG

I was going to buy a cheap MIG welder but may not now because i'm pretty happy with the brazing at this point. And yes it easily holds my 210 pounds up without falling apart :)

Another aspect of brazing is cleaning of the joint and flux.
The braze will flow wherever there is flux and the proper temp.
You can not braze aluminum.
You can do brass and steel.

I've always found arc welding much easier than brazing, esp. for steel. I am not sure but I thought it was stronger too since the metal being layed down is the same as the materials being welded. I never attempted any really light duty stuff like sheet metal though.

Having made my living brazing decorative work for homes and offices for 40 years, I highly recommend the Oxygen Acetylene Torch. You can do so many things with the torch - you can braze, silver solder, weld, heat, and form. All the other welding equipment is great, but in my opinion, no other tool gives you this much versatility .

I have a mig, tig and plasma cutter, but I most often use the torch.

You'll will want a neutral flame and the metal to be brazed should be clean - that is wire brushed or ground down to base metal.

If you are just starting out buy new equipment. In older or used equipment regulators get blown diaphrams, and torchs get worn gaskets. If you are having problems, you want to make sure that it is with your techniques and not with the equipment. You can change your techniques, but you can't repair the equipment.

I always suggest that people buy their Oxy/Ace outfit at a local welding supply. You have to go there anyhow to get your tanks exchanged or refilled. Plus the people at the welding supply can answer your questions.

You may save a few dollars by buying online, but you won't get the personal service.

When you are first starting your brazing rod may stick to your work, you'll burn pieces up, you'll get the metal to be brazed too hot - all these are part of the learning curve. Have some patience with yourself and you'll soon find it all coming together and you'll discover all the things that you can do with the Oxy/Ace torch and brazing metals together.

George Goehl

www.gsegmedia.com