Where to start

[Memmeddu]

The old buzz boxes were awful, the new inverter sets are much more user friendly, and in my opinion far easier to use.

Same here
I have a cheap inverter unit without any built-in help features , just a power source
No arc force no hot start and even no antistick
It's more like a buzz box than a modern inverter , but it's light weight , it's portable and it's a DC CC welder with a very good duty cycle

 

[harry 22]

Ok, thanks all.

I won't bother turning the chassis into a trailer for the digger. I'll also find someone experienced to weld the thumb on. I will start learning as there's always been things I'd like to make and I know it'll come in handy.

 

[8ob]

Ok, thanks all.

I won't bother turning the chassis into a trailer for the digger. I'll also find someone experienced to weld the thumb on. I will start learning as there's always been things I'd like to make and I know it'll come in handy.

I think the thumb is something you should do yourself, setting them up is a bit tricky because the pad position affects the open/closed angle. I dont think I would trust a welder to get this right, tack it in position and have a play. You can always crowd the arm to get a better position for welding.

Bob

 

[addjunkie]

I want a thumb on my digger now......

 

[Memmeddu]

Welding a thumb should be not too difficult to do
But it surely requires little bit of skill

 

[harry 22]

8ob, looks great. I might give it a go after I can weld decently enough. Is there any damage I can actually do to the excavator arm if it's not perfect?

 

[8ob]

8ob, looks great. I might give it a go after I can weld decently enough. Is there any damage I can actually do to the excavator arm if it's not perfect?

Not really Harry, it comes as a kit so you only have to weld around the base plates. As I said before its worth tacking them on first and checking the movement because a few cm`s one way or another screws with the geometry.

https://www.rslengineering.co.uk/excavator-thumb-grabs/

Bob

 

[harry 22]

I've had a quote from RSL and will be getting one from them. I just need get set up with welder and get good enough with it.

Thanks.

 

[Memmeddu]

I've had a quote from RSL and will be getting one from them. I just need get set up with welder and get good enough with it.

Thanks.

If you haven't already, you should get an angle grinder

 

[harry 22]

I've got one.

Thanks Memmeddu.