[mickmate]

Hey Bob, your original problem sounds like polarity to me. Heres the formula, for flux core (what your using) the welder needs the big wire or ground wire to be wired positive. If you are using backing gas (which I prefer) make the ground negative. I also like the previously recommended mixed gas. I use the push technique on welding when I have a gap to fill or thin metal that burns through easily. It isn't something I use structurally or aesthetically. Cleanliness is next to godliness with welding as the boys said, clean welds, anti spatter, clean wire, no rusty wire, clean ground etc. Let us know how you make out.
Cheers Nick