Welding advice, Can a cheap flux welder do what I need? Options

[Deusexmachina77]

I have to weld in a new front trunk pan replacing the hole left from an AC unit. I have taken two MIG classes. Beside being a newbie, I have other limitations to consider.

I don’t have access to a 220 line.
I’m inexperienced.
It would cost me $1000 to have it professionally done. And I don’t want to buy a bunch of equipment for one job.

Can I use a flux welder? There a couple cheap units at Harbor Freight (under $150) on sale right now. What don’t I know that I should know?

Thanks (IMG:style_emoticons/default/welder.gif)

[MikeK]

Here's an alternative method for fitting and holding panels. I cut a bunch of these little tabs, punch an 1/8" hole for a cleco, tack to either side of the panels your joining.
(IMG:http://www.914world.com/bbs2/uploads_offsite/www.thesamba.com-27418-1702570226.1.jpg)

Regarding butt vs. lap welding; My suggestion to lap was based solely on the OP's lack of experience. The most skilled part of this job is the welding, the rest of the job is patience and the grunt work of putting the panel in and out to obtain a good fit. With enough fitting, the panel could be made to fit like a glove, then rosette welded with proper surface preparation. Is it the best way? Let's just say it isn't how I would do it, but fitting a panel with little to no gaps is a skill that needs to be developed as well.

Considering that EVERY joined panel on your Porsche is a lap weld, I think it's a viable option. In fact, the only butt welded panels I can think of on a Porsche would be 356 outer panels, and you would never want to weld those with a MIG because you wouldn't be able to metal finish it.(IMG:http://www.914world.com/bbs2/uploads_offsite/www.thesamba.com-27418-1702570517.1.jpg)

Good luck!