With disconnected
Position the gun over the joint as described under “Gun Operating Positions”. Allow the mound of flux to form. Press the trigger and touch the electrode to the work by lightly scratching through the flux.
If the electrode hits the work, pushing the gun up without starting the arc, immediately release the trigger, raise the gun, and turn the nozzle up. Be sure the work lead makes a good connection and the work is clean at the starting point. Clip the electrode end and try again.