Lock welding question

[Robby]

I would like to modify the cock on a L&R, Manton & Ashmore lock to more closely approximate a double throated lock in the "Mortimer" book, by welding (gas, because thats what I have) in a piece and filing to shape. I don't have any scraps from old locks to experiment with and I am concerned that, being a casting, it might cave in or fall away (my terms,?) when it begins to puddle. I have never tried this before with a lock casting, but attempting to weld castings of a similar nature I have had this "falling away" occur. A better, more experienced gas welder probably could have made it work, I could not. I hope I explained this clear enough, any thoughts would be appreciated.
Robby

[Longknife]

I recently mig welded an L&R cast lock plate and had no problems....I don't think there would be a problem....Ed

[Acer Saccharum]

I have welded modern castings with oxy-act, with no burning or falling apart of the original casting. Original casehardened locks sometimes spark and fizzle, fall apart, crack, etc. They can be really hard to weld.

I think TIG would be the way to go with this kind of project. I am not a skilled enough welder with gas to know I have a good weld. If you are a good gas welder, you should do OK.

[Brian]

Maybe check first to be sure you can get another cock for the L&R IF you have a problem with this one - then go for it.  In a worst case scenario you will only be out the cost of the replacement cock.

[Acer Saccharum]

That's a real good suggestion, Brian.

After welding, possibly the cock will have to be fit over the tumbler shank again.

[Robby]

Thanks fellows! Brian, yeah, the first thing I checked was the price of the replacement part, just in case. For the amount of time I already have in this, just staring and thinking, I probably could have hired a certified welder at NASA, hah! Acer, an oxy-act is what I have, so thats what I'll be using, would love to have a TIG, but for right now....... To quote my father, "just do the best you can with what you got", of course seeing how he was on a first name basis with our creator, the original quote would have been a little more....flowery(?). I'm thinking a 00 tip should work. Weather I am good enough, I shall see. Thanks again.
Robby

[jerrywh]

You can do the job with acetylene if your good with it.  Don't get to lean on the flame. Keep all the parts real kleen. For 25 years all I had was a torch. If I had to do it over I would buy a tig welder on terms.

[Robby]

Thanks Jerry, every little bit helps.
Robby

[Brian]

Listen to Jerry. He DOES know of what he speaks.  Technically - you cannot get better advice, so do what he tells you to do.  And as I said, if you can get a replacement part - what the hey - go for it!  In a worst case scenario you are only out the part of a replacement item!  Good luck with it - and please post pictures.