Question about aluminized steel

Hey all, I've got a junky little 4x8' trailer we use around the yard specifically for hauling tree branches. I "think" the thing was built using some sort of aluminized steel. Any rod I've ever tried (7018, 7014, 6010 etc) welds about like a bull with a chest cold. Who ever built the trailer faired no better lol.

I need to weld on a couple safety chains. Google says 7013, Google actually says mig welding works better, but that's not an option. Can anybody advise me on how to weld this thing. I could easily just bolt on the chains, but this is a long time mystery I'd like to solve. Maybe gain a little knowledge in the process.

BTW, a magnet sticks quite well to what ever material this is made of.

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Originally Posted by Kansan

Hey all, I've got a junky little 4x8' trailer we use around the yard specifically for hauling tree branches. I "think" the thing was built using some sort of aluminized steel. Any rod I've ever tried (7018, 7014, 6010 etc) welds about like a bull with a chest cold. Who ever built the trailer faired no better lol.

I need to weld on a couple safety chains. Google says 7013, Google actually says mig welding works better, but that's not an option. Can anybody advise me on how to weld this thing. I could easily just bolt on the chains, but this is a long time mystery I'd like to solve. Maybe gain a little knowledge in the process.

BTW, a magnet sticks quite well to what ever material this is made of.

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If it is an aluminum coating, all you have to do is grind it off where you are going to weld, until you have exposed clean bright steel. If you have any doubt as to the strength of your welds on this material, bolt the safety chains on with grade 8 or better fasteners. That is not the place you want to experiment.

Thanks for reply, I still haven't figured out the mystery metal. Ended up using a Ubolt. I ground the clad off, but it still won't weld. Guess it's just gonna remain a mystery.