Welding question for all you welders out there

[bmsmalley]

It's been a really really long time since I have stick welded but, I am confidant that I still can....with some practice. MY issue, is that the welder I have, sorry I don't remember what it is as of this post other than old and 220v, will not hold an arc. I am plugged into a 4 post dryer connection and I am sure that I have two separate 110v on the side post to give me 220v. Why wont it hold an arc? Could it be possible that I have the neutral connected and not the ground?


Sorry if this is in the wrong location, please move if necessary.

 

[Hypoid]

Too many variables, have a picture of the machine's badge plate?

Here is an illustration for the dryer receptacle:

 

[Briman2021]

Are you certain the welder is in good working order? Can you take it to another outlet to test and make sure?

Contacts inside the welder can wear out over time and cause issues. I have sent 3 welders in for repair since September for various internal issues.