Miller 211 or Lincoln 216?

[Shield Arc]

what do you think?

The Lincoln Power Mig 216 has a little more output power, and duty cycle.

 

[dragoneggs]

I would go with the Lincoln. Little more amp output, little more duty cycle.
For the average guy here, I think .045" NR-212, or Hobart's 21-B self shielded flux core will handle just about any repair they will have. .035" Mig is a good all around size fab wire.
Miller - Welding Calculators

I would defer to SA as he had a chance to play with mine. I don't know anything different but I love my 211 with dual voltage, auto-set, quality build, etc. The auto-set is get as I don't document my settings and I tend to just dive in and weld. I am a once in while weekend hobbyist so I have zero concern on duty cycle. SA welded 3/4in material as I recall with mine and he was impressed. Of course he is an expert... and has been welding for a few months now :laughing: Personally I haven't done any real projects with more than 1/4in material but it is a great machine for me. Local supply and support for consumables, etc. I know very little on the Lincoln... good luck but I can't see how you would go wrong with either.

 

[TxDoc]

I have a Power Mig 256 and a Precision Tig 225 and zero problems. I still have an a Lincoln SP175 as it has never failed me and I cannot toss it out. If you can, you may consider bumping up to the 256 and have a 300 amp machine.

The 210 MP was mentioned. Take a look at Jodie of Welding Tips and Tricks with the 210MP

Tig Welding with a Lincoln Power Mig 210mp

Lincoln Powermig 210 mp

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bUEIdio6uY4&feature=em-uploademail

Good luck on whatever you go with.

 

[Big Barn]

sixdogs, I wish my dilemmas were as easy as yours. . As others have mentioned, I don't think you will go wrong with any of the machines/models you are considering. Have fun! Terry

 

[Teachu2]

Local support is very important - kinda like a good tractor dealer. I keep plenty of supplies on hand for my MM 210, and get great service at the local dealer. OTOH, I have a Lincoln 220v Mig that I can buy supplies for at HD or Lowe's on a Sunday afternoon.

All the machines you are considering are good machines. If you are buying local, shop the internet dealers and take the prices with you to the local. I saved about $400 on my 210 and nearly $1000 on my Bobcat that way.

 

[sixdogs]

ShieldArc--In you have PM, would you send one to me so I can ask a couple questions?

 

[Shield Arc]

ShieldArc--In you have PM, would you send one to me so I can ask a couple questions?

sixdogs, sent you a PM.

 

[sixdogs]

Ordered a Lincoln 210MP with the TIG package yesterday. Local Lincoln shop came close enough to match internet price and he has stuff in stock so I have a shoulder to cry on if need be . The 210MP should be fine for an advanced hobbyist/farm welder like me.

Really, though, I can see how a guy should have a big MIG, a separate TIG machine with water and foot pedal and a stick welder. So many good machines to choose from. Plus, there are some very smart guys on this site. Thank you to all.

 

[Shield Arc]

Great! I can't wait to read your review of the welder. And see pictures of your welds!

 

[Adolf08]

The Millermatic 130 is the one that welds like crap.. The 130 XP is better but nothing to wrte home about.. I owned them both, and had two standard 210 models. Far superior machine,, although 240 volt only. I would buy the Hobart myself, and not look back.. If you were doing a lot of aluminum I might go for a infinite voltage machine, but don't discount how nice the Hobart welds aluminum.