Hey,

for those of you that know welders, I am looking into purchasing one and am a bit overwhelmed between the number of manusfacturers their product lines and what is necessary for the kind of work we are likely to do on our mustangs (sheetmetal, floorpans and frames).

Eastwood has a model by clarke, and I wonder whether this is any good at all. Most of the 175-180 amp versions seem to have a low duty cycle, and thus would suggest a short overall lifetime and a short wroking time (10s of minutes).

I know that I want a mig wleder that has options for a variety of gases, and one that has a fairly good level of control, I would like to know your opinions, and the type of work that you have done with the welder.

thanks,

 

Go to hotrodders.com. They have loads of guys on there that weld etc and will be more than happy to give you there opinions. Really a good site. When I was looking to learn heat shrinking for metal repair, I got loads of info from some obviously well seasoned guys.

Good luck

 

The typical current to weld sheet metal is about 50 amps, maybe less. I use 125 amps to wel 1/4 inch plate. You maybe in anoverkill mode. There may be some info in the FAQ of this forum on welding, or do a Google search on 'ho-to'.
Jim

 

My uncle said the perfect welder for body work is the one that is just a level up from the power one that uses gas. Its not too big and not too small, and the gas willa allow for a continous weld. Hope that helps.

 

On Ebay, you can get a brand new Lincoln 175 all day long for $400± plus shipping. It is more than you need for sheet metal, but it will meet all your present and future needs. I can't tell you how many times I've seen somebody get the 110V welder only to sell it and step up to the 220V shortly thereafter. Granted, most of my welding is with Jeeps where I'm usually dealing with 3/16" steel, but it is nice to have the extra amperage when you need it.

 

The best thing about MIG welders is that after about 5 minutes of practice, a baboon can weld with one. My advice is buy any model as long as it has the gas regulator. Using CO/Argon mix is the way to go. BTW, do yourself another favor and buy a MIG welder thats made in the USA. I own a Century MIG 220v that is top notch. You don't need industrial strength for home hobby welding, so look for a nice middle of the road model.

 

thanks guys,

I wa sthinking about the 175 from lincoln, it is about 300 bucks cheaper than the miller and similar to the clarke, and I assume that arguing over which is better is probably not to important at this stage.

thanks, I will probably go with the lincoln
cheers

 

http://www.millerwelds.com/products/...lermatic_dvi2/

works with 110 or 220, and millers are excellent welders. i have literally 1000's of hours of time using them for aluminum and steel mig. esab also makes an excellent unit.

*edit* i realize this is probably overkill, but i cant stand using cheapy or low power welders - so 1500 bucks for something that will last pretty much my whole life is ok by me [8D]

 

I bought mine from Home Depot. $300-$400 bucks. Did everything I neededexcept aluminum. Use extra metal first to hone your skills. You will not be disappointed.

 

A 60% duty cycle will do anything you want, and as much as you can stand. I have had a Miller 200 for about 20 years now without any issues. I'd rather buy once and have a machine that will do it all. All welders should have thermal portection to prevent you from toasting them. Welders is also one of those things that you "get what you pay for". Tank size is also a consideration. Small tanks use up VERY quickly. I would try to go with one at least 141 cubic ft or larger.