Bob-
I run a small business, Jetson Iron, outside of my daily life as a scientist
where both types of welders are in use. I doubt very much that any pro would
ever consider using an arc welder or stick welder for auto uses.
First off, its very difficult to weld thin metal with a stick welder. It can
be done but not easily. Mig welders can weld down to about .010 sheet.
All production welders use Mig welders as there is little time in clean up
of the weld. Another nice aspect of the Mig is that you can weld many different
types of metal easily. Stainless and Aluminum weld very nicely as well as
bronze.
You can try to weld these materials with a stick - they make aluminum rod, but
I personally have never had good results.
For auto work which I guess you're doing you might consider a small Mig for
about 500-600 or pick up a used one. I doubt if you need to get a real big one
just for auto stuff. Features that are nice are the stich and spot functions
for doing really thin stuff.
If you want the ultimate welder.... buy a Tig. Tig welders can weld anything
from a beer can up. and they can weld anything that conducts electricty.
eric.
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