200DX, what am I doing wrong?

I purchased a 200dx a couple weeks ago. Metal finally came in, and picked up my consumables. Having several issues, was wondering if anyone can help troubleshoot. Using 3/32 rod and tungsten, 2% thoriated and 2% lanthiated. 4130 chromoly tubing (er80s-D2 filler) and 304 stainless tubing (316l filler). Both .065 wall, welder is set at 70 amps, 17cfh argon.

Lots of sputtering as well as wandering arc. Tungsten seems to be being used very quickly, and it will not hold a sharp point. There are times when there is a lot of smoke, and then soot/build up all around the "weld". I cannot for the life of me figure it out, as I've tried a new, sharp piece of tungsten and still get the same results.

Thanks for your help!

http://i1233.photobucket.com/albums/...ps3mhmkblz.jpg

Contamination. Is your torch in the negative?

Are you using pure argon? How much stick out? What cup size? What torch angle are you using? Do you have a fan or the welder nearby?

Looks like no shielding gas at all.

This question has nothing to do with your results, but why did you choose those two filler metals ?
304 is normally welded with 308l filler and chromoly tubing is normally welded with er70s2.

Please answer Mark's questions. That will help a lot. FYI: I use 316l on all SS projects. Foot pedal in use? When you hit trigger or pedal can you hear the argon coming out? Not using the MIG tank right? :)

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Originally Posted by performance

Contamination. Is your torch in the negative?

Are you using pure argon? How much stick out? What cup size? What torch angle are you using? Do you have a fan or the welder nearby?

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Torch is in the positive... that will likely make a world of difference!

Pure argon, 3/16 stick out roughly, 4 cup size, 15 degree torch angle, the welder or a fan is not nearby

Torch should always be in the negative. You need a larger cup.

Please. Download your manual from online and read it. It will save you a lot of frustration.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by everlastsupport

FYI: I use 316l on all SS projects. :)

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What are the benefits over 308l ?
I have both fillers on hand but have only used 316l on 316 projects.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by zoama

What are the benefits over 308l ?
I have both fillers on hand but have only used 316l on 316 projects.

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I get 316l free ;) So only use them on SS.

OP should have problem solved now with torch in the right place.