New house has 220V, considering selling my 110 MIG, what are opinions on Plasma / Mig combos?

[K30Blazer]

I have a hobart handler 140 that I weld with gas and have been happy with, but for a lot of what I do, the heat really isn't enough. My new place has 220v so I am considering jumping up to a 220v welder and selling the hobart.

Question is, I would also love to have a plasma cutter, but from what I have read, the combo units always seem to leave a little to be desired from either the plasma or the welder.

What is the general consensus?

 

[CK10]

I own separate machines, everything is 220v and I'm happy that way. That said I have friends with combo machines that do exactly what they need them to do with no issues. I've used them on occasion and they were fine, anytime I'm on someone else's machine I'm not totally comfortable whether it's a $90 harbor freight special or Millermatic so I can't give you a true unbiased review of any of them.

 

[wetoolowdingbangow]

Separate machines or bust.

The onky reason I could see them together is some sort of welding rig but still if one goes down its all done. Plus if you want to upgrade later you dont loose your plasma or welder with the sale.

Also buy the biggest plasma you can afford, amperage wise.

 

[blazinzuk]

Which particular combo machine?

 

[CK10]

Also buy the biggest plasma you can afford, amperage wise.

I was sure I'd never need the 7/8" cut (severance) when I bought mine but sure enough things have come along where I wish I would have gone with an even bigger machine. I can't justify it for the little bit I use it on such things but in that moment you sure wish you had the big boy toys.

 

[wetoolowdingbangow]

I was sure I'd never need the 7/8" cut (severance) when I bought mine but sure enough things have come along where I wish I would have gone with an even bigger machine. I can't justify it for the little bit I use it on such things but in that moment you sure wish you had the big boy toys.

There just like a welder. The biggest one is just right!

I would love to buy one but I cant afford it. Theres one at work ive seen go through 1 inch stainless....thats what I need!

 

[K30Blazer]

I have no idea about what machine. Hoping to get some guidance here lol.

 

[CK10]

You might find someone in the opposite situation of yourself who has a 220v machine and needs to go to a 110v to swap with. The little Hobart has a good reputation so you're not going to take a huge loss on it even if you sell it to buy a bigger welder.

I saved my "quit smoking" money and bought a Hypertherm in about 10 months time. Made me realize I could have more toys without that money going to cigarettes every day