Thanks Pat, I hoped you would chime in. I take care of the cut end with either a file or rotary disc. I get it pretty smooth. I use a hand prop when I can. I used a piece of C channel when I did the radiator shroud welds and the joint was clamped to a piece of 2 x 2 steel tubing to help control the heat. I actually did a lot of that shroud weld with no filler. Like you said I just buttered the joint and it went real smooth. One thing I learned tonight is to kick up the frequency when welding a fillet joint. keeps the arc focused in a tighter zone for better heat control. I'll be trying that in the morning.
You interested in giving a few lessons?
Mark