I am getting ready to buy a new MIG Welder and have some questions of the
group. To date, I have only used two types of welders: the professional ones
at the welding class I took a few years ago and a very cheap flux core welder
(hi/low and slow/fast switches) that a neighbor gave me. Whatever I buy will
only be used occasionally. I want it for light auto repair/restoration and
for home projects.
So, on to my questions. First, is getting a 220V one worth the loss of
versatility? I have 100 amp 220 service in my garage where most of my welding
would be done, but this would certainly limit my ability to take it anywhere.
Am I better off just going with a decent 110V model? Something like a 140 Amp
Hobart Handler
(http://www.northerntool.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/product_6970_200306073
_200306073)?
Second, how much better will something like the Hobart be with flux core wire
than the cheapo one I have now? Stated differently, do I really need to go to
the trouble of renting a gas cylinder for my occasional use? It seems a shame
to go to the expense of renting something that is going to sit unused 350 days
a year. I know shielding gas will give me a much cleaner weld (and also know
what a crap job my current unit does). Will I be unhappy with flux core
regardless of how much I spend on the welder?
Finally, shopping around I notice that Northern Industrial sells units under
their own name. Their 135 amp model
http://www.northerntool.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/product_6970_200332691_
200332691) has similar specs to the Hobart, but is $100 less. Does anyone
know anything about this? Is the Hobart worth the difference?
As always, thanks in advance!
Jim
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o_082008
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