Another productive day! Didn't get started till after 1400 but the hinge plate is done!!
Here goes nothin! Wasn't quite sure how to do this precisely.....so I jumped in and adjusted fire as needed.
The lower hinge tacked up. Monstaliner is wonderful at allowing a tack weld.
Welding everything up. Taking my time on the beads really helps. The heat rings were pretty well spread out so I am certain I got enough penetration. I also used a sleeve on the inside to both strengthen and align the tubing. Worked like a charm. Flux still sucks to clean up but the welds were solid so I'm good with it.
Tacked up the upper and lower hinge plates. I am fairly certain they are strong. I know it's not the strongest design but it is very solid. I don't see this failing at all. I am going to add a triangle on the inside just to add strength. I should be able to clean this piece up tomorrow and finish the bracing.
Finishing the welds and cleaning it all up to make it look purty is gonna take some time. Welds are good though.
I found these killer little pieces to keep the dirt and junk out of the joint. They were like 12 bucks for 6 and they really do stick tight to the joint without limiting movement.
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