Want new welder - opinions?

[gwdixon]

Need a stick farm welder with at least 200A DC, 220V, for repairs, fabrication, hardfacing.

The Lincoln AC/DC 240/120A just won't run 3/16" Stoody 31 hardface rod very well on DC. Don't need TIG or MIG for what is done around here. Don't like to buy used.

Looking at:

1. Lincoln Idealarc 250 (K1053-9), 300/250A. $1600.

2. Miller Thunderbolt XL (903686), 300/200A. $900.

3. Everlast PowerArc 200, 200A DC, $350.

4. Maybe a Everlast PowerPro 226. $1600. (Would like a plasma cutter but it is not essential.)

Portability or space are not factors and a budget of $2000 is set.

I've done as much searching forums and Internet research as is reasonable but need "hands on" opinions from farm welders.

My Lincoln is 25 years old and runs well so if the overwhelming opinion is to save money and run the hardfacing on 180A AC then that will be the choice.

Thanks ahead of time.

 

[yomax4]

It's what ever makes sense. I would like you to buy the Everlast unit so we can get a field report. Plus, I am an avid Inverter guy and I believe that once you own one, You will be pleasantly impressed. Go for the Inverter. Oh and I am glad to see that you use Stoody Rods. I appreciate it..:thumbsup:

 

[Mark @ Everlast]

I think you'll be impressed with the PowerArc 160 or 200. I have reports from one of my top dealers that some of the "major" guys can't believe the way it performs when he demos it in front of them. He told me today that one of the rep guys wanted to come in and test it for himself. Its the best and most powerful DC inverter welder on the market for the price. Its a true workhorse machine.

The PowerPro 205 is a good all around unit,especially for Tig and the stick performs well, but not as good as the PowerArc.

With the advent of the PowerPro 256, and its success, the 226 is not being stocked and is built for special dealer qty orders only, since it overlaps somewhat with the 256.

 

[4shorts]

I'm sure there all great machines but one thing I've learned through the years is having technical support after the purchase is one of the most beneficial things to have and considering the fact Mark is here to offer his expertize I'd have to get the Everlast PowerPro 226. Heck if you had it and needed some advise you could have it just by typing your question on here. I'm sure it's a good product and it has a good warranty so you'd have it all covered getting the Everlast :thumbsup:

 

[Mark @ Everlast]

Everlast does have 30 day satisfaction policy. If not satisfied, you can return it. The only money you are out is the money to ship it back.

 

[BlacknTan]

You will never go wrong with Miller.

Tried and true, and there are dealers everywhere.

 

[4shorts]

You will never go wrong with Miller.

Tried and true, and there are dealers everywhere.

So true.I like them too! :thumbsup:

 

[kevinj]

So true.I like them too! :thumbsup:

Arn't you missing one ???????

 

[4shorts]

Arn't you missing one ???????

Technically yes. I didn't include this one

 

[Soundguy]

I was going to suggest the hobart stickmate xl 235ac/180dc till I saw you needed 300a dc.

I like my 235ac machine.. good welder...

good luck on the search.

soudnguy