Make sure that the machine is set AC for aluminum and for 2T or pedal. Keep the amps up, that's why you have the pedal. lower the freq to around 95/100. Keep the tungsten close to the work and tilt it just so you can watch the puddle. Just practice making a puddle without filler for a while to learn the machine. Make sure the argon is turned on, things get really ugly if not (how do I know??) Did anyone tell you that practice is good? try to find some bigger pieces to practice on, as the aluminum will heat up in a hurry. Oh yeh, practice helps.