Welding

[gpci]

Need to weld custom hitch receiver to my Georg town , iam being told I have to disconnect all battery’s to protect all components . Is this true
Is there anything else I should do.

[old40ford]

You are going to have people here say "No", but, It has been recommended for body shops when welding on car bodies. It only takes a minute and what does it hurt to be safe?

[gpci]

Agreed thanks for your input

[old40ford]

You are very welcome.

[SeaDog]

Some say leaving the battery in place provides for spike protection, I have welded on cars many times without removing the battery cables without a problem, however I always make sure the negative cable (welder) is as close to the work as I can get it. Not all components are grounded back to the battery some are grounded on the frame or engine. My advice is do what you feel most comfortable with, I am not recommending leaving batteries connected or removing batteries, just saying what I have done.

[gpci]

Tks , I do have several frame grounds close to the hitch receiver as I just installed a power reel for shore power and grounded it there as well.
I’ll think I’ll disconnect for peace of mind

[Okmechanic]

Second the motion. Disconnect the battery and keep your ground as close to the welding as possible.

[wildcatter]

I wouldn't necessarily be worried about the batteries, your bigger concern are the computers, I always disconnected the computers if I was welding close to them, other wise I just had my welder ground point close to the welding spot.