By Ron on Monday, March 19, 2001 - 10:31 am: Edit

I wish to make some stuff instead of having others weld for me, any suggestions on what to get. I think I want a 110volt 140 amp one so I can weld 3/8in. Any good deals I should know about, anything not to buy. I wish to make more stuff.

Ron

By Jake on Monday, March 19, 2001 - 10:51 am: Edit

Ron;

We do a LOT of welding at my business; we use Miller exclusively. You can find at any reputable welder supply house. They have about a zillion models and options, so find a rep that can give you the straight scoop. Stay away from the cheapies: they will give you more fits than a bad LR! Another option if you want to mailorder is to check out Hemmings Motor News. Thye have several regular advertisors that sell welding gear. MTCW

By SG on Monday, March 19, 2001 - 11:54 am: Edit

I've used several different MIG welders, and I'd highly reccommend the 'gas' type as opposed to the cheapies that can only use the flux-core wire. If you have the capabilities (like a 220V outlet in the garage for the dryer) think about the going with a 110/220 switchable model...you'll have a greater range of possibilities. Also consider the welder's 'duty cycle' or what percentage of each hour can actually be used welding as opposed to standby. Some cheapies only have a 10% duty cycle.

MIG welding (actually took a college course in welding a while back) is the easiest one to make a good-looking bead but one of the toughest to get good arc penetration and a strong weld. Go to a junkyard and buy a lot of scrap, then practice, practice, practice....

Good luck!

By Milan on Monday, March 19, 2001 - 04:42 pm: Edit

Yeah. Get something with 30% dusty cycle or better. I myslef am in the market for one. The original plan was to buy it next month. Now I'll have to wait and see. However, I was looking at 110/220V Lincoln model 150 I think. I'm going to get someting with gas capabilities, but I will start with flux-core wire first. I feel than anything that can weld 3/8 or better in a single pass at 30% duty cycle should do for my little projects.

By Rod Burner on Wednesday, March 21, 2001 - 03:43 am: Edit

Miller Regency 2500. Uses gas, is compact and not too expensive. Find it at your local welder store