I got a Lincoln Migpak 15 on ebay for $400, which seemed like a good price about a year ago. Its a 30 amp 220v single phase dual mig welder that puts out 30-175 amps. Since its 30 amp 220 volt I can plug it in to the same outlet as my dryer.

I paid another $250 or so for an 80 lb bottle of argon/02. I also bought a cheap cart and a self-darkening helmet from Harbor Freight, which I've been happy with. For me the cart is more like a stand to keep everything on as I don't move the welder around too much.

I really enjoy welding and am very happy with this welder. With the things I've done to my '51 it has really come in handy.

I think the Migpak 15 is a canadian package that is the same as the SP175 sold in the US. The main difference between the Migpak and the SP175 is the the Migpak includes more stuff, like extra tips, face sheild, two spools of wire ...

For sheetmetal welding you should use solid wire, which means you need a gas mig welder. The flux-core wire is great for some stuff but not the best for sheetmetal welding.

'51 Chevy 1/2 ton w/'62 261, HEI, offy, fentons, dual carter/webbers, t-5 & 12 bolt posi