welders

[bmxdude151]

So last week i got a scholarship for $500 for any tool that is related to power equipment or small engine. i got a lot of the basics but one thing i dont have is a welder. Now i have never done much welding nor do i know much about them but I am more than willing to learn and i know a couple of people that are welders by trade and could teach me a few things. I have been advised to get a lincoln or a miller and anything else isnt worth saving the money. i would like something that is capeable of some fabrication but i dont plan on doing anything crazy in the near future. Your opinions would be greatly valued!

 

[XJ&CHZ4ME]

dont count out Hobart welders...I believe the are owned or are a division of Miller anyhow. I have a Hobart Handler 187 and run Stargon gas mixture trough it and get along great. It is a great entry level 220 welder and you can pick up new tips, cones, wire etc at about any farm supply store. It was a bit more then the $500 you mentioned but just wanted to tell you that it was a great little welder. It was around $800 I think...been a while now since I bought it.

 

[VAhasnoWAVES]

i have a little lincoln 110. MIG is pretty easy once you get the hang of adjusting it... point and shoot. but it even gives you a diagram on the inside of the lid.

now, im looking to swap in a 44, and dont know if i trust it to weld 1/4" and run it 80mph down the road. might have to step to something bigger.

i am no accomplished welder by any means. but i can lay a decent bead.

 

[rkates]

X2 on the Hobart. I run an 180 (187 took its place) and their is nothing it hasn't been able to tackle. I weld for a living and run some monster miller 250 and 300's at work and still am not disappointed when I pull mine out

 

[Fore Wheeler]

i have a little lincoln 110. MIG is pretty easy once you get the hang of adjusting it... point and shoot. but it even gives you a diagram on the inside of the lid.

now, im looking to swap in a 44, and dont know if i trust it to weld 1/4" and run it 80mph down the road. might have to step to something bigger.

i am no accomplished welder by any means. but i can lay a decent bead.

I would say no, you need a new welder Walt.




I have a Hobart 180 and love it. I bought mine on CL for $500, with less than a spool of wire ran through it.

 

[whitexj98]

Hobart and Miller are both under Illinois Tool Works. I just got a MIllermatic 211 Auto set MVP, Its amazing! Runs on 220 and 110 and will weld 5/16 in a single pass. I have only used it on 110 on my dune buggy project and it is such a smooth machine. I highely recomend a Miller or a Hobart, Made in USA!