Most experienced wheelers have broken some kind of steel part on the trail, whether it was a radio bracket or an axle. Being able to weld that metal back together on the trail can make all the difference in the world. We've made trail fixes with batteries and welding rod before, but the high-frequency welding of the Premier Power Welder just can't be beat. The Premier simply replaces the stock alternator on your 4x4. Add the control box and some cable, and you have a portable welding shop. And it isn't just for fixing those other broken trail rigs. You can weld on your own ride just as well. We recently fitted our V-6-powered flattie with the new and improved Premier welder, in about an hour or so. While our installation is a bit easier than most, the welder can be fitted to most any vehicle and engine. The newly designed control unit is easy to install and use; it's down to two switches and a dial. And don't forget it also provides 120V DC power so you can run many different power tools and appliances off your ride-as long as you have the fuel for the engine! The high-frequency aspect of the welder is due to the fact that an alternator switches electrical flow thousands of times a second, instead of 60 times a second as in normal household electricity. This high frequency helps to agitate and vibrate the molten pool of metal as you are welding, which makes for a better weld because the impurities rise to the surface. The result is a stronger weld with good penetration to the base material, so even a beginner can make good welds from the start. The Premier can also be used to cut metal and blow holes easily in stuff so oddball repairs can be easy. We've even welded cast iron with the proper rod, and salvaged steering knuckles to make it off the trail. Welding cables are available as well from Premier, so your mobile shop can be ready for your next 4x trip. Follow along and see how important the new Premier Power Welder is. The specially wound 160- to 200-amp externally regulated alternator is used as a basis for the Premier Power Welder. The insides are different though; it's not just a used '67 Nova alternator. Wiring the unit is extremely easy and straightforward, thanks to detailed instructions in the kit.The specially wound 160- to 200-amp externally regulated alternator is used as a basis for The new control box is easy to install and a bit less complex than previous versions. The new style eliminates the boost weld switch; boost is now automatic for full weld penetration. The silver box on top is the solid-state regulator for the alternator.The new control box is easy to install and a bit less complex than previous versions. The The new box mounts with four studs protruding from the back of the case. We decided to hide it in the nonstock glovebox hole so it would be hidden from prying eyes with the door shut. The location makes it easy to access for plugging in the welding cables or appliance cords. We welded a bracket inside the cowl for a sturdy support, but it's still easy to service. Under the hood is another popular mounting location, but we prefer not to have to open the hood to fix stuff.The new box mounts with four studs protruding from the back of the case. We decided to hid The hand control is used to adjust the engine to the proper rpm range depending on the material being welded. While you can weld just off idle, certain rods and material may need finer adjustment. The vernier control knob was mounted with the bracket under the dash for a hidden look as well as easy access.The hand control is used to adjust the engine to the proper rpm range depending on the mat The other end of the cable needs to be attached to the carb linkage or not, depending on your ride. The small chain and throttle stop screw works great in any old conventional system. For drive-by-wire and late-model applications, make sure you contact Premier before you start, so you don't hook up gizmos and doodads the wrong way.The other end of the cable needs to be attached to the carb linkage or not, depending on y The power outlet (arrow) is 115V DC, which powers lights, tools, and such items. It isn't AC power, so don't hook up electronic equipment or battery chargers. The Premier can also fast-charge a battery with the supplied extra clamp; a full charge can be done on a dead battery in minutes.The power outlet (arrow) is 115V DC, which powers lights, tools, and such items. It isn't To weld, simply plug in your welding cables (also available through Premier), turn on the weld switch, and adjust the engine rpm to the proper range. You'll hear a high-pitched whine, especially when welding, but that is just the high-frequency noise of the alternator working properly. Premier also offers a video to help you learn how to weld effectively.To weld, simply plug in your welding cables (also available through Premier), turn on the We even welded a small sheetmetal bracket together then purposely blew a hole in it to illustrate the versatility of the Premier. We probably have a few pounds of welding rod holding our Jeep together, and probably will have more in the years to come.We even welded a small sheetmetal bracket together then purposely blew a hole in it to ill The Premier welder isn't a drill press, but out in the field this versatility is priceless. Make sure you carry a helmet, dry rod, gloves, and proper safety equipment, unlike what we do.The Premier welder isn't a drill press, but out in the field this versatility is priceless SOURCES Premier Power Welder P.O. Box 639 Carbondale CO 81623 800-541-1817 www.premierpowerwelder.com By Rick Péwé Enjoyed this Post? 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