DIY welding?

[GabrielKnight]

I've been quoted £25 to weld a gas strut back onto the boot of my Clio, but can pick up a arc welder for £90 that could own for life.

Is it possible to teach yourself to weld? Presumedly the professionals would say no, and one recognises the inherent dangers, but anyone had any joy?

 

[Hollister]

It is on my todo list...

When you buy a cheap MIG make sure you get one rated high enough to weld whatever it is you think will be welding most of the time.

Take a look at http://www.mig-welding.co.uk to get you started.

To weld something as small as the gas strut though you might be stuggling with what an amateur with a MIG could handle

 

[Munson]

Firstly you want some test coupons to get the settings right before you play with the car. Otherwise you'll either melt the entire tailgate and blow holes in it, or it'll snap off again.

EDIT: but basic wire welding is a piece of piss so worth a shot.