Are Hobart arc units good ones?

[bunchgrass]

I saw this for sale and wondered what y'all think of 'em.

Hobart 500421 Stickmate LX 235 AC Stick (SMAW) Arc Welding Power Source $300

 

[Gary Fowler]

I wouldnt buy an AC only machine and for just a bit more than that price you can get an AC/DC. You have much better arc characteristics and better choice of welding electrodes with DC. As far as brand name, Hobart are good machines

 

[bunchgrass]

Oops - sorry Gary. I didn't even look at what I posted - just thought it had all the info. Here's a bit more on the Hobart.

235 amp AC output
* 160 amp DC output
* 15 ft electrode cable
* 10 ft work cable

 

[gwdixon]

Since they retail for over $500 the $300 price is outstanding.

If you can stand moving around 100+ pounds then you will likely be very pleased with the unit.

If you are looking for DC only and light weight you may want to look into an inverter welder.

A lot depends on what it is going to be used for and where it will be parked. I've needed 200+A in DC when running 3/16" Stoody 31 hardfacing but that may not be a need of yours.

 

[flusher]

I saw this for sale and wondered what y'all think of 'em.

Hobart 500421 Stickmate LX 235 AC Stick (SMAW) Arc Welding Power Source $300

I have the Hobart Stickmate LX AC/DC stick welder (220 VAC input power). Paid $350 at Tractor Supply about 4 years ago. It's a good welder. I've had no problems at all. I usually weld with 1/8" rod (7014, 7018, 7024) on DC positive.

 

[Chilly807]

If it's new that's a good price, used it's so-so price. I'd have a tough time spending that much if I could find a good used one for $200.

My AC/DC (Sears branded Century) was less than $150 in well used condition. Not much to go wrong with these, so if it works ok now, used is a safe bet in my limited experience.

I have a few less amps, 230/140, but other than that about the same.

I built a rolling cart for mine, they are heavy ..

Sean

 

[Soundguy]

even the ac only units are heavy.

but at that price.. I'd buy it. i lovemy 235ac model dc would be that much better..

soundguy

 

[bubbacuse77]

I have that exact welder........that is a steal. It is the exact same welder as the miller thunderbolt with different paint.........confirmed by the miller welding web moderators. You wil never out grow that heavy solid state machine