The "shoptalk" mailing list would be the best place to ask, but:
Lincoln and Miller are the two big name brands. I've got a Lincoln welder
and a Miller plasma cutter. They're both of good quality and they use
standard consumables (wire spools, tips, liners, etc). I think the less
expensive "Hobart" brand is owned by Miller. I've heard HTP makes quality
welders and Century makes cheap ones but I've never used either. You'll
pay more for a 220V welder than a 110V unit. 220V will let you weld thicker
materials but it obviously isn't as portable. You'll pay more for a unit
with continuously variable power output. My Lincoln 155 has 5 discrete
power settings and works fine for me; I think the Lincoln 175 is
continuously variable. Welding with shielding gas gives MUCH better results
than using flux-core wire. You can't weld stainless steel or aluminum
without an appropriate shielding gas. If you think you'll want to weld
aluminum and you don't want a TIG welder then you'll need a spool gun and
at least 150 amps to get acceptable results.
What are you planning to use the welder for?
At 08:18 AM 4/1/2002 -0700, Todd Richmond wrote:
>Howdy Listers,
>
>Just thought I'd like to get some input as to what to look for, and what
>to avoid, in purchasing a MIG welder. What brand names are good? Which
>ones to stay away from? Any special features I will need?
>
>Thanks,
>
>Todd Richmond
>1959 TR3A TS54425L
--
Erik Quackenbush, Midwest Filter Corporation
1-847-680-0566 http://www.midwestfilter.com
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