Miller 251 or Lincoln 255?

[blazindorito]

Which one would you recommend the MM251 or Lincoln 255?

Also, where is the cheapest place to get one. I have already checked ebay. Trying to find a cheaper place.

what would you recommend I get with this set up? looking into fabricating roll cage, bumpers, rock sliders, pool fence, and other things.

Thanks,
Ernesto

 

[84_Chevy_K10]

Sounds like serious overkill to me. The 210 amp units will do anything you'd want to do in a home.

 

[JK5]

Both Lincoln and Miller make very nice welders..

We have the Lincoln Wire-matic 255 here at work...
I purchased it in 96'...and it's still running strong.
There were some nice timing options that were available...for start-up.
But...the only option we ordered was a 400 AMP torch..insted of the 250 amp.

As far as Tim's comments go...
The smaller units are nice if you don't have the room...
But the large units have a much better duty cycle.
It's not a waste...if you're a welder!!!

I run 24-26 volts all the time...because I need penetration.

 

[84_Chevy_K10]

Both Lincoln and Miller make very nice welders..

We have the Lincoln Wire-matic 255 here at work...
I purchased it in 96'...and it's still running strong.
There were some nice timing options that were available...for start-up.
But...the only option we ordered was a 400 AMP torch..insted of the 250 amp.

As far as Tim's comments go...
The smaller units are nice if you don't have the room...
But the large units have a much better duty cycle.
It's not a waste...if you're a welder!!!

I run 24-26 volts all the time...because I need penetration.

That's true. Doing some research it appears that the Hobart Ironman 210 gets you 40% @ 150 amps. The Millermatic 250 gets you 40% @ 250, and 60% @ 200. Sweet!!

That said, I've never hit the duty cycle of my Handler 135 at home, and, well, at work we've got a $3000 TIG unit, it doesn't tend to get warm.....often.

 

[Fubeca]

I bought the Red one and have been happy with it. I just walked down to my local supplier and he gave me a price within a couple bucks of the Ebay crowd. I've not seen them any cheaper -- but then again I'm not looking anymore .

 

[Stomper]

I've got a MM251 and am very happy with it. I've also heard good things about the Lincoln welders as well. I think it comes down to what color you like best.

Can't help you on price, I bought mine local, to support the home town guy.

 

[JK5]

That's true. Doing some research it appears that the Hobart Ironman 210 gets you 40% @ 150 amps. The Millermatic 250 gets you 40% @ 250, and 60% @ 200. Sweet!!

That said, I've never hit the duty cycle of my Handler 135 at home, and, well, at work we've got a $3000 TIG unit, it doesn't tend to get warm.....often.

Yep....it makes a difference too...especially running tri-gas.
I can crank-up the amps...and spray the wire.
That's why my welds are so flat.

 

[cybrfire]

I have a miller 250x now. Basically the same as the 251 I believe. Just the previous model. I got mine with the full setup. Optioned out with aluminum and the whole 9. Love that sucker.

 

[hawglet]

Miller and Lincoln are both very comparable, in nearly all of their units. Find the best priced one and be sure that there is a shop to have it serviced at if it ever needs it. Miller is genrally a little better with their servicing. Lincoln want the machine sent in, unless you live in an area with a large service center nearby. Miller will send either the shop or you the part, generally at no cost. Service and money is about the only two factors. 210 will probably get you by at home just as many have said.

 

[beater74]

yeh i would kep an eye out for your local dealers, Holox if you have one, or any other.
when i got my 210 they had a sweet deal with the 251,they would throw in a free spool gun with the purchase of a 251. thats a a $400 value right there.

 

[Hossbaby50]

I vote True Blue Miller. That is what I am using and I really like Miller's. They are good equipment.

As far as duty cycle is concerned, more is better. I have hit the 20% duty cycle on my Miller 135 that I use. More would be nice to have sometimes.

Harley