There is the problem, because steel should weld to steel if the mating surfaces are clean and you have just a slight gap.

Good tools are expensive, but really make the job easier, better, and safer.

I just asked my Son what you have to spend for a hobby-level mig, and he feels something like a Hobart 135 can be bought, reconditioned, for about $300 on Ebay. I asked him about something from Harbor Freight, and he feels they are not very good values.

I have struggled in the past using some piece of equiptment that was not good, and the job gets really frustrating. I have also been on a budget, where $300 seems like a million, but I think if you save up to get yourself a decent welder, you will be amazed how nice your work will come out, and how many neat little parts you will weld together to make your rod different.

I've laid on a bare garage floor (or out in the driveway) working under a car with some tool that was a POS, and it really takes the fun out of it, so I really appreciate all of the tools we have built up over the years.

You could probably recoup some of your money by welding things for your hot rod buddies at $ 20.00 a pop. Just a thought.