Originally posted by 51 KY 3100:
Gonna dissent from the majority.
I bought a Hobart Handler 120 MIG (with shielding gas setup) on the unmentionable auction site, and it does just fine for my needs -- and I suspect yours. It's the biggest of the 110Volt models (I think), and is highly recommended by a lot of folks.
Really, if I was going to subframe my truck, I'm not sure I'd trust my welding skills. Anything structural, I'll go to an expert. I'm a hobbyist.
Have your electrician run 12 Gage Wire, a 20A breaker, and a dedicated 20A outlet.
Most of your cost is for him to show up, so if you can spring a little extra, also have him pull a 220 line. You'll need it someday, whether you do step up to a bigger welder, or install a compressor, or maybe even an electric oven for powdercoating (or home brewing?). Ask your electrician -- it really may not be that much more for him to do both at once.
Cheers,
mark.
'51 KY 3100
So I ran a 20 Amp 120Volt
I'm in complete agreement with this. I bought a Hobart Handler 140 (mig) a year ago and its an awesome machine. Runs on a 20 amp 120v circuit. Does the job I need it for and then some. For sheetmetal don't even try using an arc welder- you'll make a major mess. If you plan on welding sheet metal you'll need to use gas with it. The flux core wire burns too hot and leaves slag that will need to be cleaned up. If you've never welded before a mig is the easiest way to learn. Just buy a quality name brand machine ( Hobart, Miller, Lincoln). Stay away from the cheapies because you get what you pay for. For good info on welders check out the Weld Talk forum at
http://www.hobartwelders.com/mboard/
