What is the best type of welder to use?

BobG_in_VA · Sep 1, 2005

I've got a '99 model Traiblazer 251NT that I mounted on a 5X8 HD trailer (7000 lb axle with House trailer wheels/12ply tires). I got the TB with only 11 hours on it for a realllll goood price-including 50ft heavy leads. I'm a newbie to welding so the guys at the Miller store suggested I start with 6011 rods since I would be doing mostly farm equipment stuff. I'm getting so I can run a decent bead and so far everything I've welded has stayed stuck (so to speak). That TB is one neat unit--3 phase really throws an arc!! BobG in VA

Varmintmist · Sep 1, 2005

Bob, if you are getting good with a 6011, try a 7018. You will feel like a pro /forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif

I still pretty much spatter things together with the 6011's but I get penetration from what I can see. The 7018's make me look like I know what I am doing /forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif.

Nothings come apart on me yet, so I must be getting close /forums/images/graemlins/shocked.gif

nomad · Sep 1, 2005

As said above, 130 amps is low for that thick steel. You should increase amperage. If you are welding outside, MIG won't be good, use electric arc welder.

FL_Cracker · Sep 1, 2005

BobG, Now that you are doing well with the 6011 rods you may want to try a little welding with 7018 rods. They will tend to stick to the product a little more but it's a much harder weld. Since you are welding tractor stuff, these harder welds will hold up better...

Glad to see you like your TB.

Charles

BobG_in_VA · Sep 1, 2005

Thanks...I'll give the 7018s a try. The guy at the store said the 6011s penetrate well and do a good job of cutting thru rust/paint, etc. He was right. I have a good Hitachi 4 1/2 inch angle grinder so I can get the metal clean enough for other rod types. BobG in VA

Willie B · Nov 23, 2013

I've got them all. My favorite for structural or machinery steel is a Miller 252 Mig With needed accessories it cost 3000. My Miller Diversion 180 is too small for most needs. It cost 2500. My Miller Dialarc 250 HF is a wonderful stick, tig machine used and 25 years old it cost 1700. The Bobcat 250 is very portable, makes its own electricity, thaws water, etc. cost 1250 used.
The most used machine I own cost 400 new in 1974, has been used for hundreds of projects with almost no problems. It is a Twentieth Century three hundred amp stick AC. 100% duty cycle.
The best welder I know uses a similar machine for everything from tractor trailer truck frames to auto bodies.
If you are interested I will sell you either this or a bigger industrial Hobart at a price you can afford.

newbury · Nov 23, 2013

Willie B said:
I've got them all. My favorite for structural or machinery steel is a Miller 252 Mig With needed accessories it cost 3000. My Miller Diversion 180 is too small for most needs. It cost 2500. My Miller Dialarc 250 HF is a wonderful stick, tig machine used and 25 years old it cost 1700. The Bobcat 250 is very portable, makes its own electricity, thaws water, etc. cost 1250 used.
The most used machine I own cost 400 new in 1974, has been used for hundreds of projects with almost no problems. It is a Twentieth Century three hundred amp stick AC. 100% duty cycle.
The best welder I know uses a similar machine for everything from tractor trailer truck frames to auto bodies.
If you are interested I will sell you either this or a bigger industrial Hobart at a price you can afford.

Do you realize you are responding to an 8 year old thread?