WELDING

[bucketobolts]

Then you can throw in a chop saw, band saw, plasma cutter, milling machine, & a lathe and you'll be really set

Don't forget the TIG rig for those fancy projects.

I'd suggest getting the largest machine you can afford. Never heard anyone say that they wish they had a smaller welder. I traded a 140amp 110V model for a 250amp 220V a few years back. The 110V was great for sheet metal and exhaust repairs.

Some good advice for a beginner, keep your joints clean. MIG welders don't like paint, rust, or grease. Try to fit you joints properly. A gap on a butt joint is going to cause the weld to sag through or blow out. A good V ground into thicker metals will make for better penetration. Good torch angle, speed, and technique can make anyone look like a professional.

[Timstrk]

I completely agree with Bucket. I have a Miller 210 220v in the garage. Way more than I need. Can strike an arc in midrange and weld away a 10lb spool of wire without stopping. Great duty cycle there. Bigger wire and bigger amps not so much but I don't go there.
Just bought a plasma cutter, too. Will clean cut 3/4" and sever 1". Way cool garage toy. All in a 20lb box the size of a lunch box. More details upon request. Also more capability than I need but available.

Tim
74 Bronco Ranger halfcab
w/toys

[JunKeBluB2]

Just bought a plasma cutter, too. Will clean cut 3/4" and sever 1". Way cool garage toy. All in a 20lb box the size of a lunch box. More details upon request. Also more capability than I need but available.

Tim
74 Bronco Ranger halfcab
w/toys

TELL ME ABOUT IT ? PRICE $$$ ?

[Timstrk]

Check it out on Pirate4x4.com under a product review on the opening page. Place called Parker Metalworking Products out of Apache Junction, AZ. Made in China. Has a Harbor Freight look to it. I know for sure it will cut 1/2 inch with nooooo problems. Don't have any thicker material in the garage. Hollar loud about the shipping. $515 to the door by UPS. Wouldn't want to do anything in a professional capacity with it but for the garage it's perfect. Base unit $399, turbo'd for $50 more, extra 10 amps, + shipping. Comes with a regulator/moisture seperator and extra consumables.

Tim
74 Bronco Ranger halfcab
w/toys

[chuzie]

I've had a welder for a few years now and I still don't know how to use the freakin thing. My welds look like crap and I am pretty sure one day something is going to fall off my rig because of it. I am considering a class when I get back. I will just add it to my list of 500 things to do when I get to Charleston.

[K45]

If you are asking for brands then I would say Lincoln or Miller, Miller being the better one.