Weak Arc on Lincoln 225 ac

[jhendric]

Folks, I am new to welding and on my first attempt it just didn't happen. I would describe it as a weak arc, just didn't seem like there was any energy getting to the electrode. It would spark a bit and stick, but would not hold an arc and what little welding did happen was superficial at best. My welder is a used Lincoln 225 AC. The ground and the electrode holder do seem dirty and worn but it worked fine when I bought it a year ago. It has not been used since then. Can you give me some ideas on what I might check?

 

[ruffdog]

What AMP setting and rods are you using? Maybe adjust the amp setting back and forth a few times then try it again??????

 

[jhendric]

I did that for sure, there was only a slight difference even when cranked all the way up.

 

[user.69169]

Rotate the amp switch back & forth few times to clear corrosion.

Dat don't work, make sure ground connection to work good
Also light scuff stinger jaws wid chain saw file

Dat don't work make sure machine is getting 220 volts from wall plug

None dat works post again

 

[crazyal]

What rods are you using? Some are for DC only. Are they new? Are you sure your ground clamp is making good contact?

 

[WranglerX]

Check ground clamp wire connection and contact points of clamp and that clamp is on "clean" surface. (usually hit contact point with angle grinder for clean steel)
Check the wire connection at electrode clamp and be sure jaws are clean.
Rotate switch several times to clean any corrosion, or unplug and open back and polish contact points with scuff pad.
Check if you are getting good 240 Volts to unit.
Check rod type and size for work at hand.

These are just transformer machines (no electronics inside), basically they either work or they do not....

Dale

 

[Industrial Toys]

I think DL covered anything I could have thought of.

Just as far as checking voltage. That has to be done under load otherwise it's a meaningless test. It's about checking voltage drop, which only happens unlder load.

 

[jaxs]

Sound's like something minor,or something major. On the other hand it could be a combonatiion of something minor and something major. I feel safe in saying most of us thought something was wrong with the machine first time we TRIED stricking an arc.
Seriously,we need MUCH MORE information and a video if possible. The simplest solution is to let an experienced welder try it. Doesn't have to be a certified welder or 20 years experience,just a hack like most of us can tell you more with hands on than 3 pros with no information to go on. Hubba,hubba,now go get'um.

 

[jhendric]

Thanks guys, let me do some more poking around and I'll post back asap.

 

[r porter]

turn the switch back and forth a few times- the copper contacts can get corroded.

they are an easy clean if you take off the cover.