System and method with floating welder for high rate production welding

A method of manufacturing an assembly, the method comprising the steps of:

• loading a workpiece into a securing station having a gun supported by a frame in a home position, the gun is configured to secure a component to the workpiece in a securing position during a securing operation, the gun misaligned with the workpiece in the home position;
• advancing at least one of first and second members of the gun to engage the workpiece, the at least one of the first and second members having a locating pin;
• causing a force on one side of the locating pin in response to the advancing step and any misalignment with the locating pin and a hole or attribute of the workpiece;
• urging the gun to glide relative to the frame between the home position and the securing position in response to the force on the one side of the locating pin thus centering the locating pin with the hole or attribute;
• and
• securing a component to the workpiece at the securing station in the securing position.