In the mobile welding industry, there are two options available in rigs. You can set up a trailer rig with all the facilities and features that you need. Or you can convert a pickup truck into your personalized welding rig. This write-up will guide you in choosing one that will fit your needs best.
There are several choices when it comes to setting up your first rig, and it involves a lot of trial and error. The next guy’s favorite setup could not work for you. Much depends on personal preference.
Trailer Rigs
Trailer rigs have their own place for rig welders. They are most customizable and may be parked and stored when you aren’t intending on welding that day. They allow your main vehicle to be used for other errands apart from welding, which is a plus point. When you don’t have any welding jobs upcoming, you can detach the trailer and get on with the day.
A trailer, unlike a welding service truck for sale, is the best choice for welders who are just part-time. Or maybe they only do odd jobs for some side money. You need not dedicate your daily driver to your business. In other words, you’ll have your vehicle ready for errands, camping trips, and family outings.
Trailers also make awesome backup rigs if your main truck breaks down. Most vehicles can tow them, and the smaller-sized trailers are extremely lightweight. Most welding companies tend to have a trailer rig ready in case one of their main trucks breaks down.
Rig Trucks
Rig trucks are the most preferred way to go about this business. Pipeliners are mandated to have trucks since trailers are too much of a liability and can spawn issues on busy job sites. Working out of a truck is much easier because everything you need is attached to your vehicle. The length of your overall setup is also a lot shorter with this.
Any pickup truck can be modified to build a welding rig. Using your normal bed and adding your machine, leads, cylinders, and tools is what is known as a “tub rig”. You can build a basic skid out of steel, that rests in the bed. Then you can mount your welding machine and the entire essentials to the skid. The plus point of this is that you can remove the setup with a forklift, and then you have a totally empty truck bed ready for other activities.
The Bottom Line
One drawback to note is that if your welding truck breaks down, you go out of work until it can be fixed. Transferring your equipment to another truck can be a huge pain. This means you’ll need to have a good mechanic who can get you back on the road quickly. If you fail to show up at the job site, your truck won’t be making you any money. Many busy welders choose to look for a newer welding service truck for sale since it is more reliable in the long run.
