k0ua
Epic Contributor
Well, guys, I have done a lot of reading about the difference between stick welders and flux-core welders, and bottom line: it seems to me like this Ward AC/DC stick welder is a heck of a deal at that price, whereas I don't see much in the way of flux-core welders in the same price range, never mind the same apparent value-for-money. When I search around, it seems like people are asking $100-150 for AC-only stick welders in similar amp ranges. I checked this evening, and the Ward AC/DC I linked to above is still available a week later, so I bet I can get the guy to take a little less than $100 for it. But even if he sticks at $100, it seems like a real steal and I think I will go for it. What do y'all think?
I also thought through the 220-volt issue, and I realized that the concrete pad behind my house would probably be perfect for welding. It's flat if I need to square up anything big; it's enclosed on three sides (leads to a daylight basement) so nobody will be inadvertently exposed to the arc; there's nothing flammable nearby, like there is in my barn/wood shop; and best of all, it is RIGHT by the electric meter and main service panel, so if I one day want to put an outdoor-rated 220 receptacle in, there should be absolutely minimal wiring. Maybe I'll have the electrician put in the generator transfer switch while I'm at it...
I say buy the AC/DC welder, as long as it works, it is a steal at 100. I want more than that for my AC only tombstone. (I don't use it any more after getting my Everlast) Give it a go, and have fun.
James K0UA