While the 110v Lincoln Weldpak 100 is usually easier to learn, I feel if you need to weld quarter inch material, a stick welder like a Lincoln AC/DC 225/125—sometimes called a “Tombstone”-- would be a better choice. You can also change the size and type of electrode instantly and if using an E6010, the metal being welded can be “dirty, rusty, greasy, or painted” (see lincolnelectric.com’s consumables info on electrodes.)
I started trying to weld about a month ago with a Sears 90 amp wire feed welder (made by Century), liked it, and then tried an engine driven stick machine and after getting used to it, like it better. My welds are generally terrible looking, getting better, but hold. I now gravitate toward the stick machine because I don’t spend any time cleaning the metal which I found to be a must with the flux core wire feeder. You do have to clean the stick weld by hammering it or wire brushing it if you want it to look nice because all the “dirt, rust, etc.” is brought to the top of the weld and forms a black shell over it. That’s faster than getting the base metal clean, though. Be prepared, however, either one is lots of fun and you can never have enough welders
You can get some great info on welding at the following sites:
http://www.hobartwelders.com/mboard/ or
http://www.aws.org/
The people on these boards are as good with welding questions as the folks here are with tractor questions.
Also, Lincoln and Miller have a wealth of info to help you make your choice as to which machine to buy based on your needs.
Best of luck,
Bill
