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could welding fry the computer?

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Old 02-21-2006, 12:40 PM
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Default could welding fry the computer?

I am installing TSP true duals on my T/A in a few weeks, and am just wanting to tack weld the hangers into place rather than drill holes in the floorboards. My question is, if i just disconnect the neg battery terminal will that protect the computer, or do i need to unplug the computer also? someone that i know said that you need to unplug the computer to prevent voltage spikes from damaging the computer, and another person said that unplugging the computer will hurt it and will not allow it to run properly... who is right?
Old 02-21-2006, 12:56 PM
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I have welded on my cars in the past without unplugging the computer, just the battery. No problems. The path of the welder current will be from the stick to the ground clamp. It should not really get near the computer if you are welding on the exhaust. My 2 bits.
Old 02-21-2006, 02:02 PM
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Absolutely unplug the battery. Both terminals.
Old 02-21-2006, 04:56 PM
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Ya, should have empahsized that a bit more. Definitely unplug both battery terminals.
Old 02-21-2006, 05:09 PM
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Not to be an *** or anything, but I'd bolt it through, not weld it. I have some flaps cut in my carpet, and it takes me all of ten minutes to drop the exhaust, and that includes pulling it on the rack, lifting it, and bullshitting with my friends for a minute or two.

If you weld it, I hope that you never plan to remove it for any reason.
Old 02-21-2006, 05:35 PM
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You don't need to disconnect anything. It's a real good idea to clamp the ground close to where you're welding. For example if you're welding exhaust, don't clamp it on the frame.

This appies to all welding except for TIG (heliarc) do not tig weld on a car with a computer.
Old 02-21-2006, 05:41 PM
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For the extra peace of Mind, I disconnect the bat and PCM. Takes less than 2 min.
Old 02-21-2006, 06:36 PM
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Go out and buy some 3/8" bolts and some 3/8" FENDER WASHERS. They are huge and will NOT pull through. You will have to cut the hangers off every time you need to mess with the exhaust.




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