220 mig on a generator

[Cheap5.0]

I have some welding to do way out 'yonder'. I have a 6500/9500 watt generator w/ a 220 output. My welder is a L-tec MigMaster (285 amp). Simple math tells me if it draws 30 amps, ill need about 7500 watts. 50 amps, 11000 watts.

But my question is this, I wont be welding near max amperage on the mig. Ill be closer to 50% amperage. Does this sound like it will work on my generator?

 

[wyliesdiesels]

Even if the welder only draws 23a, it will have a 30a plug and cord on it, so looking @ the plug size doesn't work. What does the nameplate or dataplate on the welder say it draws?

 

[Sureshot]

If you have it already just try it in the shop before you get out yonder. I think it is worth a try.

 

[Zrexxer]

I've run a Lincoln SP175 off of a Honda 5000 watt generator several times; even ran a Millermatic Vintage off the same generator for a short time. It will work fine if you're not wide open on the welder output. I don't do it anymore only because I have a Trailblazer with 10K watt output now plus I have a suitcase feeder for it.

 

[Buckgnarly]

I ran a Miller Thunderbolt XL off a 6500 IIRC watt. I had to make an adapter to fit the 220 plug on the gen, and ran it nowhere near max, but it worked

 

[Cheap5.0]

Great thanks everyone. I usually just go ahead and try things like this, but i thought i read somewhere that generators can damage electronics like a welder? No worries there?

 

[wyliesdiesels]

Maybe. Have u tried contacting the manufacturer, doing a google search, or reading the manual? It looks like others on here have ran welders off of generators so you are probably fine!

 

[Cheap5.0]

Forgot to update this...it didnt work. Dismal failure. It would not even power the cooling fan for the welder.

I ended up JB welding the thing out yonder lol...looks to be holding for now.