Welding safety

I would like your advice on what safety measures should be taken when performing a weld at the rear wheelarch and on the sill of my Toyota Corolla. The area was called 2,4,A,3 on the advisory sheet and the corroded section is very small and near a vent which is behind the trim where damp has been getting through.

My welder is a MIG no gas 24/90amp type. Should I unplug the ECU or the battery? The fuel tank is not very near to the area and I cannot see anything that could be affected. W Williamson A As the area you are welding is at the rear of the vehicle, disconnecting the battery should suffice. Ensure that the ground clamp has a good clean earth to the vehicle and place it as close to the area being welded as possible, which should prevent any unwanted spikes of voltage travelling though the body.

As you are happy the fuel tank is far enough away from the area to be welded, the other points to check are that there are no cables or trim close enough to burn. I would also keep a can of water and some damp rags to hand to avoid any possibility of paint/underseal igniting.

I am sure you know to wear protective clothing and use a welding mask.