Looking for a portable welder I can run of of my generator.

Arc weld · Apr 5, 2014

An inverter uses a lot less power than a transformer. I think a 140 to 160 amp inverter would work fine, probably even a 200 amp as you don't need 200 amps that often. 140 amps will burn 1/8" 7018. That's enough for most projects or repairs. Extra capacity is good because you can always plug the machine in in your shop.

SquirmyPug · Apr 7, 2014

Take a look at the Miller Maxstar 150S if you only want a stick welder. If you want to tig weld also, look at the Maxstar 150STL or STH. I have a 150STL and tig and stick weld (7018 electrodes mainly) with it. Very nice little machine. Which machine also depends on what electrodes you plan to use, most small inverters don't burn 6010 very well. 6011 is very similar to 6010 and runs fine on most machines.

If you go up to the Maxstar 200, they are said to burn all electrodes very well. They are about 2X the size of the 150 though, which may not be important to you.

jwmorris · Apr 8, 2014

I picked up on of the maxstars when they first came out, I use it mostly in TIG but have done quite a bit of stick welding with it. Nice machine if you don't need more than 150 amps but I wouldn't have bought it if all I needed was a stick welder.

Brad_Blazer · Apr 8, 2014

How about the Everlast Powerarc 200 which lists for $349. With 100% duty cycle at 160A it should let you run 1/8" rods all day long.

It will also burn 6010 which is the type someone is most likely to give you an old 50lb box of for free and is excellent for welding in less than ideal conditions and positions. It has gotten some excellent reviews on this forum.

The Longevity Stickweld 200 lists at the same price with very similar features.

At that price why go smaller?

Both companies have a "make an offer" option and say they offer a TBN discount.