Testing weld strength

[David_17]

Is there any way to test the strength of my welds before it's too late? - Especially the wishbones?

I don't want to finish the car then the worst happen when it comes to driving it. :o

[AshG]

get a hammer and beat them to pieces. if you dont want to do that then xray or dye to detect fractures/defects is the only way.

[David_17]

I've tried the first method, but started denting the metal on my test bit :rolleyes: lol

[locostkiwi]

over here in New Zealand all our front and rear wishbones have to be TIG welded by a cert welder, iv been a Trade quail welder for the past 20yrs but have done limited TIG welding,so im going to fab, tack and send them off to a mate who will finish welding them. ( MIG welding is a big NO,NO over here for any suspisoin part!!!)
Then they will be sent away to be NDT tested costs about $40/item...

[David_17]

It's things like that that worries me :eek:

[davidimurray]

Another extra test you can do is to cut one of your test welds in half and have a look at the penetration and form of the weld. Ideally you should see good penetration through the material and als a good 'shape' to the weld beads. Have a look at the top and bottom of the beads - do they run out smoothly in the parent metal with no sharp joins or undercuts? Any sharp edges will act as stress raisers so you want to try and make sure everything is smooth.