Is my Miller Bobcat the wrong machine to learn to stick weld with?

[Arc weld]

A Bobcat is a DC welder so it should be a great machine to learn on. If you're having a few minor problems with a Bobcat, you'd be having fits with a buzz box. Are you running on reverse polarity(electrode positive)? That could make a difference.

 

[ENC]

I'm not even sure how the machine is set up for sure AC/DC + or - but I "believe" it is set up DCEP.

I have to say that I have been reading (here mainly) and watching a lot of how to videos, and I feel like I am much more prepared to have better luck this year.

 

[CNC Dan]

I highly recommend videos from wall mounted on stick welding.

I think they were about $25.00 ea.
Well worth the cost.

http://www.weldingvideos.com/arcwelding1.html

 

[nybirdman]

6010 DC rod in 1/8" and 7018 DC rod in 3/32" should run at the same amp setting. Approximately 100 amps DC.Sounds like you are mixing AC/DC rods and trying to run at the same amperage.Reverse polarity(negative ground).This was the standard set-up for us in the pipe welding industry.The Bobcat is a decent welder/generator and a good fit for the homeowner or farmer.6010 is a good penetrator and open butt type rod while 7018 is stronger and looks a little smoother.6010 doesn't mind a little rust or paint where 7018 has to be shiny clean.

 

[Mark @ Everlast]

The Bobcat is a good machine as far as reliablity and general purpose repair. I have run both Bobcats and the equivalent Rangers. I own a Ranger. I much prefer the arc of the Ranger, but that does not mean the Bobcat would not be a decent machine to learn on, only an expensive way to learn with a gasoline engine that could burn a fuel (especially if its an older Onan).

 

[Reyer Farms]

Well..... My opinion is a bobcat is just about the most bulletproof engine drive to run. Yep I have one- 225 dplus, Duetz aircooled. I have also owned 2 black faces, run every ranger size, vantage, and a super nice shorthood. Used bobcats a lot doing plant work, lp models. The machine does not have a wide of a sweet spot as a Lincoln but it will weld its tail off.
Best arc hands down is a old Lincoln SA 200 tweaked by Fowler. But talk about fuel consumption. Even at 1550 it drinks it!
They are not only still around because the most picky welders in the world demand them and turn their nose at everything else, But they work simply work. Next to them is the bobcat, simple design, no high dollar boards, plenty ac generator power, and ac weld option. My experience is no where near as vast as others and I do not stay very current on the newest machines. I have learned the hard way and paid for my experience out my pocket. If my bobcat blows up, I am going right back with a Bobcat.