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> Info on welders needed., need to buy a welder.
914_1.8t
post Nov 2 2004, 03:05 PM
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I no longer have access to a welder as my welding guy sold his, and my project is dead in the water w/o a welder. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/sad.gif)

So i'm thinking about buying one and saw this at Harbor Freight:
http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/disp...Itemnumber=6098

I don't know too much about welders (IMG:style_emoticons/default/confused24.gif) :
1) What is difference between MIG/TIG/ARC?
2) What's better/easier to use, GAS or Electric or it possible to use a conbo of both?

Any feedback appreciated.
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914GT
post Nov 2 2004, 03:20 PM
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For auto body work I'd go with gas MIG. I don't know about the HF unit but make sure you can get the gas kit, usually runs about $100 for the regulator and different liner for the cable for non-flux wire. Tank is also extra, check your welding supply shop for prices. I don't like flux wire for car work. Gas cleaner and easier, lets you weld thinner metal. Use Argon-C02 mix or straight CO2. Latter is cheaper and deeper penetration, but argon mix best for thin gauge steel. Get a 230V unit, for 115V you have to be careful with line voltage drop at higher currents. Get the big wire spool upgrade. The small spools get used up too quick. I have both MIG and oxy-acet. I use the MIG a lot more, but gas welding/brazing does come in handy.

Before you buy the HF thing I'd go check prices at your local welding supply shop first.

TIG is best for aluminum, stainless. Not for general autobody work. Harder to use. Arc is the old stick welders. Great for heavy duty welding of pipe, chassis, heavy gauge stuff. You need a real big MIG to do that work.
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Mueller
post Nov 2 2004, 03:20 PM
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I bought my MIG from this company (an FAQ there as well)

Salesco.com

I recommend a MIG with gas, that has a range that will go down low enough for the sheetmetal on the car, and a heat range high enough for the thickest metal you might want to weld....if you can, spring for a 220v unit, you'll be happier in the long run.

if you plan on doing a bunch of aluminum, TIG, but they cost a whole bunch more...
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seanery
post Nov 2 2004, 03:25 PM
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The problem with the HF welder is this (I looked at this welder last time I was there):
No heat control. There is a switch with 2 or 3 positions, the wire speed is more adjustable than the heat.
I went with the miller 135, total control of heat and speed.

Spend the extra money, you'll be happy and you'll do stuff once - well maybe twice (IMG:style_emoticons/default/laugh.gif)
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type11969
post Nov 2 2004, 03:34 PM
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just bought a lincoln sp-135 plus here:

http://www.weldingmart.com/Qstore/p001647.htm

free shipping and has the infinite controls of a miller but for a little cheaper than any miller 135 I could find.
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qa1142
post Nov 2 2004, 04:43 PM
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I bought the HF wire feed w/o gas. Having run Miller's at prior jobs (careers) I have to say, buy one with gas and full adjustability. I only paid $109 with sale and $10 coupon, but, it is hard to get good bead.

buy with gas!
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airsix
post Nov 2 2004, 04:55 PM
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Get a Miller, Hobart, or Lincoln. Get it with gas, and don't get a model under 100amps. My recommendation would be for a 135amp (or so) model that runs on 110v. This will have plenty of power for autobody work, and is good quality stuff. I would not go with a 90-100amp unit. My welder is a Hobart Handler 135 and I love it. Feed mechanism never slips or jams and overall quality is excellent. I would buy this welder again in a heartbeat.

-Ben M.
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Mueller
post Nov 2 2004, 04:59 PM
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problem solved.....he is going to borrow my welding setup (IMG:style_emoticons/default/smile.gif) (IMG:style_emoticons/default/welder.gif)
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chunger
post Nov 2 2004, 08:46 PM
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Was just about to say he can borrow mine (IMG:style_emoticons/default/smile.gif)
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TimT
post Nov 2 2004, 08:53 PM
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That chicago eletric look like the first welder I ever bought... about 15 years ago... it worked well, and actually still makes sparks... I did graduate to a Lincoln welder though Ill have to check the model.. but that blue box worked well for me...
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davidcalvin
post Nov 2 2004, 09:26 PM
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Can you BUY a welder? I thought slavery was agaisnt the law.. or are you out of country?

(IMG:style_emoticons/default/confused24.gif)
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seanery
post Nov 2 2004, 09:29 PM
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waiting to rebuild whitey!
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welder, yes
weldor, no
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