Lap Welds in Auto Body: Definition and When to Use Them
Uncover when lap welds make auto body repairs easier, stronger, and smarter—plus the hidden pitfalls that could ruin your panel.
Category Automotive Welding Guide
Your complete guide to automotive welding with Ryan Mitchell — a 38-year-old professional welder with 17+ years of real-world experience in collision repair, custom fabrication, and classic car restoration.
In this category, Ryan breaks down everything you need to know: MIG, TIG, spot, stick, and resistance welding techniques, weld joints and types, common defects (porosity, undercut, burn-through, etc.), troubleshooting tips, welding parameters, materials, and all the essential terms every auto tech and DIYer should master.
Whether you’re repairing a daily driver, building a custom chassis, or restoring a vintage muscle car, you’ll find clear, practical, shop-floor advice designed to help you weld stronger, smarter, and safer.
New articles added regularly. Start learning today and take your automotive welding skills to the next level.
Lap Joint vs Butt Joint in Auto Body: When to Use Which
Seam choices can make or break a repair—discover when lap joints outshine butt joints and which one truly protects your panel.
Is Automotive Welding Hard to Learn?
Begin learning automotive welding with simple techniques, but discover what makes it tricky before your first real repair.
How to Use Scrap Metal to Practice Auto Body Welding
On scrap metal, learn auto body welding basics with the right setup and techniques, so you can avoid costly mistakes before tackling real repairs.
How to Use Run-In and Run-Out Tabs for Cleaner Welds
Discover how run-in and run-out tabs can elevate your welding quality, but there's a vital step you mustn't overlook for flawless results.
How to Use Heat to Straighten Warped Welded Panels
Navigate the intricate process of using heat to straighten warped welded panels, and uncover essential tips to achieve perfect symmetry and avoid costly mistakes.
How to Use Backing Gas When Welding Stainless Steel
How to effectively use backing gas when welding stainless steel can transform your results—discover essential techniques for flawless welds.
How to Use an Oxyacetylene Torch for Automotive Brazing
With the right techniques, you can master oxyacetylene torch brazing for automotive applications—discover how to ensure strong, durable joints.
How to Use a Spot Welder: Step-by-Step Instructions
Find out how to master spot welding with essential steps and tips that will elevate your craftsmanship—discover the secrets to flawless welds!
How to Use a Plasma Cutter to Prep Metal for Welding
Navigate the essentials of using a plasma cutter for metal prep, and discover crucial tips to elevate your welding game. Don't miss out!