Welding Glass Shades

[Morgan Sweet]

I'm hoping to do some light car body repairs and have got access to a Clarke 135 te. I'm retired in my 60s now and although formally trained as a welder have not welded for decades. I tried using an old stick welding facemask with a shade 11 glass but can't see a thing when using the MIG on low settings. Would you advice on a shade 8 for this type of work? Although I am wearing reading glasses I'm having problems seeing the molten pool. Thanks for any information.

 

[Bill Edwards]

You'll really struggle with an 11! I'd go for either an 8 or 9 if you're only doing the thin stuff. You may find a head mounted mask (not the hand held type) better as it gives you the use of two hands to hold work or to steady the torch. For what they cost you may wish to join the many people who swear by the auto darkening helmets.