millermatic 250, any problems?

joes_427_vette · Jun 22, 2010

I believe the 250 is a very good machine. Certainly enough of them out there. Not much to go wrong.
I would check the serial number for when it was manufactured. This machine could easily be 30+ years old. Not saying this is bad but technology has improved over the years.
As for price I think it is a little over retail. I just bought a 9 year old digital display Lincoln 255C for $900.00 It was used very little at a used car lot mostly for replacing exhaust systems. Still had the orig roll of wire in the carrier.
I have seen 250s from 600 on up that looked in great condition.

Sockwell · Jun 22, 2010

Bought one about 10 years ago. At that time, our company was just starting up, so I bought it to use for industrial maintenance. We've used it hard at times and have only had one problem with it. We had to have a PCB replaced about 6 years ago. From what I've seen of the machine before and since, better than even money says we did something stupid to cause the board failure. Paid $1300 for it new. Would quickly do it again.

wrenchturner · Jun 22, 2010

I have an old Millermatic 200 made in the middle 80's and I love the machine. If I recall correctly, the duty cycle of my machine is 100% at 200 amps and 60% at 250 amps. Anyway, these older machines would do much more than today's machines. I can easily spary arc weld with mine. It has been a while since I researched these machines but I do remember some of the 250 welders haveing a problem with burn back where the wire tends to burn back into the torch tip when ending a weld. Anyway, I would recommend you visit this site http://weldingweb.com/index. It is WeldingWeb where the professional welders hang out.

trouble007 · Jun 22, 2010

thanks for the site im actually on there too and there is a bit of a different story coming back about it. everyone says it has harsh arc starts and poor acr quality so i am thinking i will go with the mm 200 instead same machine just a little older

yomax4 · Jun 22, 2010

Yes the Arc was harsh and the 250 was actually a step back for Miller from the MM200.. But..They wanted 2 variable control knobs thinking that is what people want. Anytime you add SCR's , In a Transformer format ( Variable volt controls ) you will have a harsh arc compared to the Tap set units. The MM20 is still the benchmark of the integrated mig units. It was just that good. However,, Now days you can get a MM200 quality or better unit for not much more than $1000. With a 5 yr Warranty 15' Tweco Gun, Spot, Stich, Burn Back, Dwell and Trigger Lock with a Better Feed System. Check out Thermal Arc 210.. 250 Amp. All the Craze out there. This is Hobart Mig Roots at its redefined best.. Check it out...