handirifle said:As for portability, I already have a 110v, 90 amp mig that I use mostly flux wire in, and it has done a yoemans duty for me, but I occasionally need more amperage, like my upcoming trailer axle replacement, where I need to weld the spring hanger tabs onto the frame. I may just have to do it with mine in several passes. But someday I would like to build items like a log splitter, and I doubt the little mig will penetrate deep enough to hold the wedge against a 30 ton ram. I do not get a good mental picture when I see the wedge go flying.......
Most if not all my welding, is done in my shop, where the mig plugs into a dedicated 20 amp circuit, and any new machine will have it's own 110/220 circuit of what ever amperage is needed, so that won't be a problem. My workshop is 24x30 so anything I plan on making will easily fit inside.
My preference is for a machine of at least 160 amps, maybe more, just to keep the duty time up.
HF has some 225 amp machines, that I THINK are inverter machines, but can't see that in the specs. They have a low duty cycle (20%) but that's at top amps and I doubt I'd ever need that. I cannot ever see me welding anything that needs that much power, or honestly, me even knowing that I DID need it.![]()
k0ua said:Or look at this little 140 amp rig that will run on dual voltage up to 85 amp with 3/32 electrodes on 120 volts or 140 amps with 1/8 inch electrodes on 240 volts. and comes complete with a 17v TIG torch for scratch start TIG all for $275.
I think there is some kinda of TBN discount if you contact Mark here on this forum
PowerArc 140ST - Multi Purpose Units, Diesel Generators, Welders, Arc Tig Mig Welding Equipment, Plasma Cutters
James K0UA
I have the pa 140 and it has worked faultless for the last 7 mo. Like Mr Koua said its as light as a lunch box and not much bigger. It has been my go to welder since I got it and about 120 lbs lighter than my ac welder.
Well I will certainly look into them, I need to make some changes to come up with the $$$. I have an AR receiver that I need to sell. That will free up enough money to be a little more picky. I need to balance cost with frequency of use. For most jobs the little MIG is hard to beat.
You know, we are heading east the 13th, to Huntsville, Al, with a number of stops along the way. Unfortunately, the little Honda would croak with that in the trunk. Otherwise it would be a done deal.
I had - literally - never welded (excluding oxycetelene) before 4 months ago. I did some 'net research and talked to guys in-person that have plenty of experience.
I agree do NOT buy a NEW stick. I paid $250 for an AC/DC Tombstone. I figure if I learn it decent, I may want to get a MIG or a TIG down the road. Then I can get what I want without compromising to include stick.
Or, if casholla is no object, Hobart has for around $3k an 11kw generator/welder that I believe is capable of ALL processes and has a 100% duty cycle
edit - Oh, I also bought the two stick welding DVDs from Northern Tool. Great for beginners like I. I would probably buy the DVDs on MIG and TIG before getting serious on purchasing one or the other.
Handirifle... I noticed you're on the Central Coast. I am too for most of the year. N/W Atascadero. Where are you located? I'm about to purchase an Everlast from Mark Lugo too, the PA 300.Well I will certainly look into them, I need to make some changes to come up with the $$$. I have an AR receiver that I need to sell. That will free up enough money to be a little more picky. I need to balance cost with frequency of use. For most jobs the little MIG is hard to beat.