Welding 101 tips and tricks.

[Babaganoosh]

So I got some extra cash laying around and I think I want to invest a little into a welder. I don't know much about them but I know I want gas, I don't want to mess around with flux core.

What do you guys think about this? I would like to be able to weld sheet metal and fill holes in the frame of my truck.

http://phoenix.craigslist.org/evl/tls/4245125921.html

http://phoenix.craigslist.org/nph/tls/4220548901.html

http://phoenix.craigslist.org/evl/tls/4218008769.html

http://tucson.craigslist.org/tls/4258120079.html

http://tucson.craigslist.org/tls/4248470360.html

 

[sweetk30]

hands down for me would be #1 if still avalible and can test it before buying.

 

[Babaganoosh]

That would be my first choice after a little research. Funny thing is I would probably ask the guy to use the machine before I used it.

I'm just not sure if these will suite my needs of structural welding

 

[sweetk30]

I started with a Hobart 140 early design compared to stuff now . and it did all I needed just fine .

 

[Babaganoosh]

What did you do with it? I'm looking to weld on my frame, tubing and axles if needed.

 

[sweetk30]

welded a lot on a frame I had .

its a good all around unit .

that #1 unit should be a super unit for a newbe like you .

 

[Babaganoosh]

Good deal, now to make the decision if I should spend the money on it or save it for the ord 4 link.

 

[jekquistk5]

Buy the biggest brand name welder you can afford first then 4 link

 

[NorCal_Chris]

IMO dont waste your money on anything under a 180amp 220v unit.

 

[Richcz28]

IMO dont waste your money on anything under a 180amp 220v unit.

I agree with this. A 220v is where it's at.

I have a little craftsman welder which is supposedly made by lincoln or century (I don't know this for a fact). It is ok for floor panels and fixing random things, but after using some more expensive units I think it was a waste of money. I bought it before I was on ck5 and before I knew how to weld. It does ok for floors and what not, but I would not trust it for anything serious. I borrowed a buddy's stick welder to do my spring perches and shock mounts. If I was welding to my frame I'd want a professional grade 220v unit.

When I save up enough money I am considering this welder.

http://www.millerwelds.com/products/multiprocess/product.php?model=M00361

 

[Babaganoosh]

How about this one? Says its 220. The first one in the original post has been sold.

http://tucson.craigslist.org/tls/4192400484.html

I think this might be the best deal even better then the first one.
http://phoenix.craigslist.org/wvl/tls/4213119836.html

And I also just found out when people say miller 150 the 150 is the amps it puts out. I thought it was just a model number....

 

[Babaganoosh]

Well that miller is mine when the guy gets home, It has 3/4 of a bottle comes with all the extras only used 5 times.

 

[wage92]

Well that miller is mine when the guy gets home, It has 3/4 of a bottle comes with all the extras only used 5 times.

Think thats a pretty good deal, especially with the bottle. Not much more than a 110 unit though, is it 220?

 

[Babaganoosh]

I went and bought it stole it at 370.

 

[wage92]

wow, all that extra stuff too, i still dont have a pair of those mig pliers. Good deal

 

[Babaganoosh]

Yes, I can't believe the deal I can't smiling... It's the little things in life.

 

[wage92]

nothing beats a good deal.

 

[Babaganoosh]

Here is the real kicker, I found this.

http://phoenix.craigslist.org/nph/tls/4199066587.html

I paid half of this.

 

[wage92]

smaller tank too. Youre gonna like that big tank

 

[jekquistk5]

Now pick up a good hood! Get a good autodarkening hood don't waste your time with harbor frieght hoods. Go to a welding shop and find one you like. You can be the best welder in the world but if you can't see what you are doing it doesn't mean anything. Be prepared to spend about 125-200.