Identification should include following manufacturer recommendations, school policies, and the instructor guidelines for repairs requiring

• shielded metal arc welding (SMAW)–checking ground lead and electrode holder
• gas metal arc welding (GMAW), short-circuit gas metal arc welding (GMAW-S), self-shielded flux-cored arc welding (FCAW-S), and gas-shielded flux-cored arc welding (FCAW-G)–changing contact tips, drive rollers, and gas diffusers.

Process/Skill Questions:

• Why is it essential to follow manufacturers’ recommendations when making repairs?
• Why is it important for the insulators to be intact on a SMAW electrode holder?
• What are the effects of a worn contact tip on a GMAW welder?
• What are the effects of a broken O ring on the GMAW/FCAW welding gun?