Everlast Welding Machines

[Wamsutta]

What's the story with them? Where are they manufactured?

Bob Moffat on weld.com seems to prefer the Everlast machine whenever he's doing TIG on steel pipe.

 

[Bert_]

I'm curious also. They make a 200A inverter stick welder for under $400 that I am pretty tempted to order. Until I'm confident enough I guess I'll just keep carting around a tombstone. Inverter would be nice for the portability.

I will say if it was just going to stay in the shop I would 100% get a used transformer machine.

 

[dr_clyde]

The hobby crowd seems to really like them.

A pipe fitter friend of mine had one for a while. He hated it. Sold it and bought a Miller and Esab.

I'm of the opinion that you should only buy welding machines you can get serviced locally. Usually that means Miller, Lincoln, Hobart, ESAB or Fronius. Sometimes you'll find a welding supply that deals in an odd brand, but rarely.

I wouldn't have one in my shop, but I'm not really a hobby welder. I have a Miller fleet, and did that before I had my shop. I bought a Dynasty off eBay for my first TIG machine.

If you can't afford a more supported brand, I'd take an Everlast over any of the other cheap hobby grade machines.

I haven't owned one. They may be the best thing since sliced bread. But I don't trust a machine I can't get parts and service for locally. That goes for pretty much any equipment or tool. I'd rather spend more and get the good **** then roll the dice to save a buck.

I dunno. My opinions on welding machines usually falls on deaf ears around here. Most hobby guys want all the things for no money and refuse to look on the used market. I'm not built like that. I'd rather have a 30 year old Syncrowave than a brand new AHP or Everlast. My perspective also stems from being a professional welder and having the biases that brings toward equipment.

My advice is only worth what you paid.

 

[strength_and_power]

At that price point, China would be my first guess. I’ve heard relatively good things about them with the only negative being if it does need service you are sending it off and will be waiting a bit to get it back.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

 

[850xpeps]

I’ve got the 230 imig. I like it. I made my own ground cable and went for a 15’ mig gun. Also got a spook gun for aluminum but kinda wish I would have just put the money to the side for a tig. My friend has the 200amp tig/stick. Has made lots of stiff with it and loves it. I get that a professional welder might say they prefer something that can be serviced because they just wanna drop off the machine and have it fixed. But from what I read before I bought it was pretty good reviews. I wouldn’t hesitate if it’s in your price range. Only thing I had/still am getting used to is the voltage and ipm setting as opposed to my Hobart wire speed and voltage knobs. It might not make sense but seemed easier to grasp turning a dial with 1-10 compared to real numbers lol

 

[gofastwclass]

I really like Bob's teaching style but I notice he seems to use what Weld.com sells. I'm not saying he is or isn't biased but the YouTube channel he hosts is a business owned by someone else which means he isn't calling all the shots. When they shot the older videos in the school they were probably limited on what was available in the school he teaches at. All the recent videos are shot in the Weld.com shop or on location at a manufacturer etc..

Having said that I can't remember seeing a single Miller, Lincoln or Fronius in any of the videos. If one was there it was in the background and wasn't being used.

I'm a hobby welder and I would love to see and use a few of the other brands to see if I could tell a difference. No one I directly know has any of the other brands, we all use Miller, Lincoln, Esab or Hobart - because local retailers sell and support them. Even though I've never had a real problem with a welder (all Millers) there is comfort in knowing I can buy parts locally or load it in my truck and get it repaired by a guy I can shake hands with.

 

[850xpeps]

I really like Bob's teaching style but I notice he seems to use what Weld.com sells. I'm not saying he is or isn't biased but the YouTube channel he hosts is a business owned by someone else which means he isn't calling all the shots. When they shot the older videos in the school they were probably limited on what was available in the school he teaches at. All the recent videos are shot in the Weld.com shop or on location at a manufacturer etc..



Having said that I can't remember seeing a single Miller, Lincoln or Fronius in any of the videos. If one was there it was in the background and wasn't being used.



I'm a hobby welder and I would love to see and use a few of the other brands to see if I could tell a difference. No one I directly know has any of the other brands, we all use Miller, Lincoln, Esab or Hobart - because local retailers sell and support them. Even though I've never had a real problem with a welder (all Millers) there is comfort in knowing I can buy parts locally or load it in my truck and get it repaired by a guy I can shake hands with.

A post above mentioned parts and availability and that he would take a 20 or 30 yr old machine. My Hobart beta mig was maybe 20 yrs old and I couldn’t find parts for it. Including the gun I couldn’t replace.

The gun hook ups on the everlast are the same as Miller or others so you can get replacements. Not sure about internals. While my inverter welder is still heavy, it’s lighter than my beta mig and seems to weld better powerwise. The beta mig was tired.

 

[dr_clyde]

A post above mentioned parts and availability and that he would take a 20 or 30 yr old machine. My Hobart beta mig was maybe 20 yrs old and I couldn’t find parts for it. Including the gun I couldn’t replace.

The gun hook ups on the everlast are the same as Miller or others so you can get replacements. Not sure about internals. While my inverter welder is still heavy, it’s lighter than my beta mig and seems to weld better powerwise. The beta mig was tired.

I'm sure there is an age when the OEM stops selling parts for a machine, I suppose it depends on the part and if they still make that particular welder.

ITW bought Hobart in 96. I want to say the beta mig was before that acquisition, but I'm not sure. I'm not a huge Hobart guy so I can't say for sure. Because of this transition it is a pain to find parts for the Hobart machines prior to ITW ownership. I know when I tried to find parts for a Tigwave 350 my LWS couldn't find what I wanted. But that machine had to have been 30 years old.

I know you can still get parts for a Syncrowave that was new in 91. I've had to buy a polarity selector switch.

I have a Lincoln Invertec V300 Pro that needed service a year or so ago. I think they discontinued those in 1999. No problems getting the part. A voltage regulator went bad. Runs like a champ.

 

[fordkid88]

I have the inverter dc tig/plasma cutter combo machine. I love it. Its great and their customer service is pretty great. Not so fond of the tig pedal though.

 

[isb cornbinder]

Some of the machine shop channels, on You Tube, that I subscribe to have Everlast. I wanted to buy one of these machines, but I live on the West Coast and the closest dealer is
EVERLAST WELDERS CANADA
5109 Harvester Rd. Unit A2
Burlington, ON L7L5Y9
Phone:905-637-1637
Email: [email protected]
This is about 5000 miles from here. Forget that shxx.No local dealer, I am out.
I think Adam Booth, aka Abomb79 and Jimbo's Garage have Everlast.

 

[850xpeps]

Some of the machine shop channels, on You Tube, that I subscribe to have Everlast. I wanted to buy one of these machines, but I live on the West Coast and the closest dealer is
EVERLAST WELDERS CANADA
5109 Harvester Rd. Unit A2
Burlington, ON L7L5Y9
Phone:905-637-1637
Email: [email protected]
This is about 5000 miles from here. Forget that shxx.No local dealer, I am out.
I think Adam Booth, aka Abomb79 and Jimbo's Garage have Everlast.

Bought mine from there. Was good to deal with.

 

[bullnerd]

I've been thinking about the 200 mig.

My neighbor is a long time fabricator. I've known him for 30 yrs and he started long before that. Built dirt track chassis before you could buy them mass produced. He raised his son as a welder/fabricator, he's about 25 now. He has a pretty big Everlast tig machine and has nothing bad to say about it. He grew up using the best miller has, so the everlast must not be that bad or he would have told me.

About getting parts. The lower end 200 mig is about $625. I wonder if you had a 200 miller mig and it broke, what would the bill would be to repair/service it?

 

[KLRCraig]

I have had the Everlast 256 tig for 5 years and been very happy with it.

 

[sberry]

It's not falling on deaf ears but the answer to every guy isn't just get a 7k machine. You would be correct that being professional is extremely biased. I agree about the fix cost. 800 for a new board, in some cases they don't even make 5hem anymore so this 10 year 9ld machine a guy bought so he could fix is now scrap.
I got a bud in the biz, always buying something he is gonna fix, has a pile of broke weldrrs. So,, finally buys an Everlast, 500$. Runs the **** out of it for over 5 years, it finally craps, he about can't help himself, a part is 300. Well a part for a /ood one would be triple that but throw it away already and get a new one they made improvement ts to.
Spending 5k so you might be able to fix it 30 years from now isn't for everyone. Especially hobby types already retirement age.
Got another bud, retired and bought a 211 and a Dynasty, realizes now he could have made it thru with the 211 with room to spare. Would a cost 100$ to have all the TIG he ever needed done or could done it with a 500$ Everlast vs a 5000$ Dynasty.

 

[sberry]

Same for the welding schools, I am a career welder but I don't think that every retired type wanting to build a little yard art and fix some lawn equipment needs to stop everything and get a degree in welding. They don't need every process. Lincoln sold a lot of machines to rookies, even more and better with the advent of the small feeder and lots of guys can't weld a luck with stick turn out good work with a mig.

 

[Full Throttle]

I have never seen Bob run anything but Essab.

 

[shedfullatools]

I have the Powerarc 140 ST and love it, bought it mainly for its size and dual voltage capability with no wiring involved. Burns rod beautifully, I haven't used the tig feature unfortunately as I have no means to get gas. Im eying one of their bigger migs now

 

[dr_clyde]

I'm not saying go buy a 5k machine. I realize that's not practical for most guys.

I am saying get a machine that is reputable and locally serviceable. Buy from your LWS. You'll build a rapport with them. You need gas, wire and tips anyway. Make friends with the sales guys. It will pay dividends in service.

I'd look real hard at Lincoln's MP 210 or SW200. ESAB is really pushing their newest multi machines. A Millermatic 211 or Hobart Handler would be a great MIG to start with.

We're talking like $1500 or less for some of these. Brand new with a warranty.

I can't half *** my hobbies. I go in deep. Id rather have the nice pro grade gear, even if I'm only using it occasionally. Makes me happy. That's how I'm built. I like to hunt deals and shop and get nice gear for a fraction of the price. I realize that makes me weird. I'm not a carpenter but I'd rather have Festool than Dewalt if you know what I mean.

I'd get used before I bought anything new. I only buy new when the used market doesn't have what I'm looking for.

I bought a Millermatic 200 off Clist for $350. I paid $500 for my MM250 from a local shop. My Lincoln V300 and LN-7 I got off eBay for $850. All really nice machines for a fraction of a new one.

**** I got a Syncrowave 250 for FREE the other day. They are out there. You just have to look and get the word out that you're looking.

I don't understand why guys would even want a cheap import when you can find nice USA industrial iron at auction or estate sales or classifieds for so cheap. Yeah, it's easier in the Midwest. But is possible everywhere. You just have to look harder. eBay ships nationwide and I've bought 2 welders off eBay.

At the end of the day cost isn't really my first concern, or even my second or third. That's probably why I don't play nice in these threads. If I can get a deal, great. But I'd rather have what I want instead of settling. If that means saving a while longer, bargain hunting or working some OT, I'd rather go that route.

Again, free advice and all. I don't have to weld with whatever the OP buys.

 

[850xpeps]

I'm not saying go buy a 5k machine. I realize that's not practical for most guys.



I am saying get a machine that is reputable and locally serviceable. Buy from your LWS. You'll build a rapport with them. You need gas, wire and tips anyway. Make friends with the sales guys. It will pay dividends in service.



I'd look real hard at Lincoln's MP 210 or SW200. ESAB is really pushing their newest multi machines. A Millermatic 211 or Hobart Handler would be a great MIG to start with.



We're talking like $1500 or less for some of these. Brand new with a warranty.



I can't half *** my hobbies. I go in deep. Id rather have the nice pro grade gear, even if I'm only using it occasionally. Makes me happy. That's how I'm built. I like to hunt deals and shop and get nice gear for a fraction of the price. I realize that makes me weird. I'm not a carpenter but I'd rather have Festool than Dewalt if you know what I mean.



I'd get used before I bought anything new. I only buy new when the used market doesn't have what I'm looking for.



I bought a Millermatic 200 off Clist for $350. I paid $500 for my MM250 from a local shop. My Lincoln V300 and LN-7 I got off eBay for $850. All really nice machines for a fraction of a new one.



**** I got a Syncrowave 250 for FREE the other day. They are out there. You just have to look and get the word out that you're looking.



I don't understand why guys would even want a cheap import when you can find nice USA industrial iron at auction or estate sales or classifieds for so cheap. Yeah, it's easier in the Midwest. But is possible everywhere. You just have to look harder. eBay ships nationwide and I've bought 2 welders off eBay.



At the end of the day cost isn't really my first concern, or even my second or third. That's probably why I don't play nice in these threads. If I can get a deal, great. But I'd rather have what I want instead of settling. If that means saving a while longer, bargain hunting or working some OT, I'd rather go that route.



Again, free advice and all. I don't have to weld with whatever the OP buys.

You talk up USA made like it still a good thing.

In another note a guy buying a machine for a hobby and doesn’t know how to fix is better with a new machine. Most people don’t sell welders because they are working 100% they sell them because there is an issue.

Plenty of people have had no issue with these welders so how can you call them cheap ****? I’ll keep mine and you can MAGA.

 

[bigguns69]

If you are considering buying a welder that is not from the main 3 (Miller, Lincoln, Esab), you are absolutely wasting your money and buying an inferior product that you will regret. Buy used if you can't buy new. There are lots of main brand bargains out on the internet.

 

[Full Throttle]

If you are considering buying a welder that is not from the main 3 (Miller, Lincoln, Esab), you are absolutely wasting your money and buying an inferior product that you will regret. Buy used if you can't buy new. There are lots of main brand bargains out on the internet.

dont leave out Hobart...Made by ITW same company that make Miller

 

[Stooge]

I would be looking at an Alphatig if I were looking to stray from one of the big 3. of the handful of people I know with Everlasts, they are either fine, or complete dogshit and that is enough to convince me not to buy one. One of them has been going back and fourth with RMA's for the last yr, sending it back multiple times only to have it "pop" within a minute or 2 of using it after getting it back. this last time he received it back from repair, the front cover panel was all cracked, the side panel wont stay closed, case is all mangled with no damage to the packaging box. Having to send a machine out for repair multiple times and be without for the better part of a year seems like a silly way to save money

the latest unboxing from repair
https://www.instagram.com/p/BuPYDMiFpTT/?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet

 

[dr_clyde]

You talk up USA made like it still a good thing.

In another note a guy buying a machine for a hobby and doesn’t know how to fix is better with a new machine. Most people don’t sell welders because they are working 100% they sell them because there is an issue.

Plenty of people have had no issue with these welders so how can you call them cheap ****? I’ll keep mine and you can MAGA.

I'm not looking to start a fight.

Nowhere did I call any of them ****, nor did I say anything political.

All I was recommending is in my experience I've had far better luck with tools and machines from companies that are represented by local dealers. That usually is a domestic machine, but there are obvious exceptions. I buy quite a lot of German and Japanese tools of the highest quality. Quite a few of the lower priced Miller, Lincoln and ESAB machines are imported to meet a price point. But being that Miller or whoever is an American company and we are in the US, you stand a far better chance of having any problems dealt with in a more positive manner. If I have any issues, or want any parts or accessories I simply have to call the salesman from the LWS.

I'm happy for your success with whatever machine you have.

I'm sure the OP will be happy with whatever he decides, but he asked our opinions. I stated mine based on my views as a welding and machine shop owner.

 

[sberry]

I try to base the opinion from the point of a value added salesman and some on my experience,, but don't forget who asked the question. I use the experience part to try and make a judgement on the likely need, a realistic view of the use and duty and get the right machine for them.
This may not be the machine I would chose for myself, it may be based on mistakes I have made. The machines I have made the most with actually cost the least, the ones I still use with work similar to most on this forum would be economy simple models today. I got 10 machines, use 2.

 

[dr_clyde]

At first I try to take price out of the equation entirely. If I was looking for a welding machine that does X, what machines fit the bill? I'll make a list. I'll look at stuff like process, output amps, input power, settings and functions, duty cycle, stuff like that. What do I actually need the machine for?

Then I narrow it down from there based on other criteria. Is the machine reputable? Is it physically the right size? Is it available locally? Can I demo it? What accessories come with it? What's the resale look like? Warranty?

Then I look at my budget and see what I can afford.

I don't like the idea of limiting what my tool can do based on MSRP. I like to work the other way around. Obviously I don't have unlimited resources so price is a factor, but if I bought a $500 welder but it can't do what I need or want, then I've wasted $500. But if I buy a $1500 welder that does all I want and more, then I've got a good deal. No need to look at $5000 machines, I've got all I need in the $1500 welder.

When you remove the price, what does an Everlast do that the others can't? Is it actually as good or better welding machine? If so, you got a great deal. Kudos. But the reality is you're looking at a compromise due to cost. Something is being taken away to get the price down. There is no free lunch. If the things they remove to lower the price are things you don't need, then you saved money. But if you really needed a feature and it's not there, then that deal sucked.

I don't like being limited by my machines, so I look at function first, then we think about how we're gonna pay for it and if it's a good investment.

 

[sberry]

I welded a lot for the first 15 years of career, today the work is more similar to a busy hobby guy. When I am busy in the shop it's often vs a lot. I can count of NY fingers the times I weld more than a few minutes in the last few years. 10# of wire and 10# of rod can last me a good long while. I haven't bought a full can of rod in 20 years.

 

[850xpeps]

At first I try to take price out of the equation entirely. If I was looking for a welding machine that does X, what machines fit the bill? I'll make a list. I'll look at stuff like process, output amps, input power, settings and functions, duty cycle, stuff like that. What do I actually need the machine for?



Then I narrow it down from there based on other criteria. Is the machine reputable? Is it physically the right size? Is it available locally? Can I demo it? What accessories come with it? What's the resale look like? Warranty?



Then I look at my budget and see what I can afford.



I don't like the idea of limiting what my tool can do based on MSRP. I like to work the other way around. Obviously I don't have unlimited resources so price is a factor, but if I bought a $500 welder but it can't do what I need or want, then I've wasted $500. But if I buy a $1500 welder that does all I want and more, then I've got a good deal. No need to look at $5000 machines, I've got all I need in the $1500 welder.



When you remove the price, what does an Everlast do that the others can't? Is it actually as good or better welding machine? If so, you got a great deal. Kudos. But the reality is you're looking at a compromise due to cost. Something is being taken away to get the price down. There is no free lunch. If the things they remove to lower the price are things you don't need, then you saved money. But if you really needed a feature and it's not there, then that deal sucked.



I don't like being limited by my machines, so I look at function first, then we think about how we're gonna pay for it and if it's a good investment.

It’s different than someone who wants a welder. And can get by without some options. You need your welder on a daily basis to make money so finding ones that fit your need then getting the best deal is different than a hobby welders needs.

 

[dr_clyde]

Like I said, deaf ears.

My needs and wants seem to always be different than what this board is interested in.

I should just quit posting in these welder threads.

 

[zmotorsports]

The hobby crowd seems to really like them.

A pipe fitter friend of mine had one for a while. He hated it. Sold it and bought a Miller and Esab.

I'm of the opinion that you should only buy welding machines you can get serviced locally. Usually that means Miller, Lincoln, Hobart, ESAB or Fronius. Sometimes you'll find a welding supply that deals in an odd brand, but rarely.

I wouldn't have one in my shop, but I'm not really a hobby welder. I have a Miller fleet, and did that before I had my shop. I bought a Dynasty off eBay for my first TIG machine.

If you can't afford a more supported brand, I'd take an Everlast over any of the other cheap hobby grade machines.

I haven't owned one. They may be the best thing since sliced bread. But I don't trust a machine I can't get parts and service for locally. That goes for pretty much any equipment or tool. I'd rather spend more and get the good **** then roll the dice to save a buck.

I dunno. My opinions on welding machines usually falls on deaf ears around here. Most hobby guys want all the things for no money and refuse to look on the used market. I'm not built like that. I'd rather have a 30 year old Syncrowave than a brand new AHP or Everlast. My perspective also stems from being a professional welder and having the biases that brings toward equipment.

My advice is only worth what you paid.

Like I said, deaf ears.

My needs and wants seem to always be different than what this board is interested in.

I should just quit posting in these welder threads.

Don't do that, you are highly respected here for your knowledge.

I am not what you would call a professional weldor but I am also a bit more than a hobbyist weldor so I guess I fall in the middle. I can say that I am of the same philosophy when it comes to my tools and equipment, buy quality and buy once.

That being said, I can see a hobbyist looking at a price point but I had always feared of getting deep into a job and having my tools or equipment **** out on me which is why I always seemed to upbuy when purchasing tools and equipment. I am a Miller fan here and not because it is popular or the "in" thing, but because they simply work job after job, year after year.

My buddy bought an Everlast machine several years ago against my recommendation. I helped him get it set up and showed him how to weld with it and I have to be honest, it did ok and better than I thought it would. Now would I want to use it every day? No, I wasn't that impressed with it but it did fit his budget even though I suggested he not get in a hurry and find a good quality used machine either off Craigslist (ksl.com here locally) or stay in contact with one of our local welding supply companies. He wanted one right now and didn't wan to wait, I guess the money was burning a hole in his pocket.

Three years later now he is looking to upgrade to something a little more heavy duty as he found he likes building things and welding but is upset at himself for spending the money that he did and get the machine he really wanted. He had used mine a few times and figured the Everlast would be just as good at a fraction of the cost. There's no such thing as a free lunch, or even a cheap lunch in the welding industry.

 

[pi_guy]

Like I said, deaf ears.

My needs and wants seem to always be different than what this board is interested in.

I should just quit posting in these welder threads.

I second that.

It seems that advice from long time users gets down graded because price seems the only real thing that matters to the mass of GJ.

I had several people at tracks have me come over and pay me to weld something with my Miller Dynasty when they have welding equipment in the trailer.

The other item that makes GJ crazy is the fact that some people hire people based on the quality of the tools.

Sort in the post less read more mode......

 

[bimmer1980]

dr_clyde -- I do appreciate your input.

I currently fall in the "hobby" category, but it's helpful to know what is available.

My brother and I have a Miller Syncrowave 250 Tig in the shop in SD.....Along with a Miller 2xx mig welder with separate feeder and a Lincoln Mig.

I'm currently using a Hobart Beta Mig 250 in my PA shop..... At some point I would upgrade, but it works for right now.... Hence, I normally just follow along on these threads and don't post.....

It really comes down to peoples tolerance for potential down time vs their budget, etc...

 

[bdbecker]

Whenever a debate like this comes up, I'm always reminded of what the salesman told me when I was buying my first guitar. I asked what the difference between the Squire and the Fender was besides the price. His answer was perfect - he said "Once you get good enough, you'll know..."

Dr. Clyde - don't stop posting, your advice is appreciated. I wholeheartedly agree with the notion of looking for a good, used name brand machine before getting a new, "budget-brand" machine. I say this as recent convert...

I recently caught a deal on a lightly used Millermatic 140 to replace my Northern Tool 140 MIG welder. I had no issues to with the Northern Tool welder, but upgraded because I knew I'd have a better shot at finding repair/replacement parts for the Miller down the road. On paper, they are the same machine. In real life, the Millermatic is easier to weld with. I can't put my finger on exactly why, but it just is. I've always been a "generic is the same as the brand name, just at a lower cost" type shopper, but this experience has me questioning that mentality.

All that being said, if the used market is dry/overpriced/out of budget, go ahead and get a budget brand machine. Any welder is better than no welder in my opinion. However, the advantages of finding a good used name brand machine are that if you decide you don't like welding, you should be able to come close to break even when you sell it. If you decide you do like welding, you'll have a machine that should last you a long time without the need to upgrade down the road.

 

[850xpeps]

Don't do that, you are highly respected here for your knowledge.



I am not what you would call a professional weldor but I am also a bit more than a hobbyist weldor so I guess I fall in the middle. I can say that I am of the same philosophy when it comes to my tools and equipment, buy quality and buy once.



That being said, I can see a hobbyist looking at a price point but I had always feared of getting deep into a job and having my tools or equipment **** out on me which is why I always seemed to upbuy when purchasing tools and equipment. I am a Miller fan here and not because it is popular or the "in" thing, but because they simply work job after job, year after year.



My buddy bought an Everlast machine several years ago against my recommendation. I helped him get it set up and showed him how to weld with it and I have to be honest, it did ok and better than I thought it would. Now would I want to use it every day? No, I wasn't that impressed with it but it did fit his budget even though I suggested he not get in a hurry and find a good quality used machine either off Craigslist (ksl.com here locally) or stay in contact with one of our local welding supply companies. He wanted one right now and didn't wan to wait, I guess the money was burning a hole in his pocket.



Three years later now he is looking to upgrade to something a little more heavy duty as he found he likes building things and welding but is upset at himself for spending the money that he did and get the machine he really wanted. He had used mine a few times and figured the Everlast would be just as good at a fraction of the cost. There's no such thing as a free lunch, or even a cheap lunch in the welding industry.

Is the quality of the machine that bad? I get the impression that it was parts availability and downtime when something needs to be fixed, that was the issue.

I have no issue with mine performing. I finished a skid steer bucket build with mine as my beta mig was crapping out. My lws didn’t have tips or could even source a good priced mig gun. I got more power for the money and it has worked well so far.

Like I said, deaf ears.



My needs and wants seem to always be different than what this board is interested in.



I should just quit posting in these welder threads.

Everyone has different views so just because someone doesn’t take your advice doesn’t mean it isn’t good.

 

[sanddan]

I can't half *** my hobbies. I go in deep. Id rather have the nice pro grade gear, even if I'm only using it occasionally. Makes me happy. That's how I'm built. I like to hunt deals and shop and get nice gear for a fraction of the price. I realize that makes me weird. I'm not a carpenter but I'd rather have Festool than Dewalt if you know what I mean.

-----

I don't understand why guys would even want a cheap import when you can find nice USA industrial iron at auction or estate sales or classifieds for so cheap. Yeah, it's easier in the Midwest. But is possible everywhere. You just have to look harder. eBay ships nationwide and I've bought 2 welders off eBay.

-----

I agree with the first comment, I am much happier with quality tools than off shore junk. My full size miller MIG was bought used.

In my area it is very hard to find decent welding machines used at any reasonable price. Just this area I think. I can see why people tend toward buying new, just too hard to find used sometimes.

I have a Lincoln Precision Tig 185, bought new. It's been a great machine to learn on but only has basic features compared to the newer invertor machines. I've thought of getting an Everlast or AHP machine mostly to try out the extra features/adjustments the invertor's have that my Lincoln doesn't. Mostly for welding aluminum as the Lincoln does great on steel. A cheaper entry price for me considering how I would use it is a big selling feature. So far, even the low price hasn't gotten me to pull the trigger yet.


Also, as a hobby welder I've had a Century MIG, Miller MIG and the Lincoln TiG during the last 32 years and I've never had to have any of them worked on during that time period. Maybe one reason why the hobbyist isn't scared off by non-brand name machines, we won't use them hard enough to have issues the professional might have.

Dr, keep sharing your insights with the rest of us, Thanks

 

[zmotorsports]

Is the quality of the machine that bad? I get the impression that it was parts availability and downtime when something needs to be fixed, that was the issue.

I have no issue with mine performing. I finished a skid steer bucket build with mine as my beta mig was crapping out. My lws didn’t have tips or could even source a good priced mig gun. I got more power for the money and it has worked well so far.

I don't think the quality is that bad which is why I posted for the hobbyist and at that price point it isn't a bad machine. My biggest complaint was constantly being up against the duty cycle and the weld quality derating/deteriorating drastically.

The fact that parts availability was enough for me to steer clear when I was looking for a smaller machine to run .024" wire on for smaller projects. Ultimately I couldn't bring myself to pull the trigger and still went to blue and picked up a Miller 211 even though it was well above the price of the Everlast.

 

[sweet victory]

Our shop purchased two Powertig 325EXT's. They both died within a month of use. They were roughly $2500 per machine. Complete, utter garbage. We'll stick with big blue machines for now on.

 

[sberry]

My needs and wants seem to always be different than what this board is interested in.

I should just quit posting in these welder threads.

You should take this opportunity to learn the difference. There is a lot of merit to finding the good economical machine. No one is saying to buy something that wont work and we constantly tell people that ask here that start with price that they might should look up a bit and move to better machines. We move them off the bottom HF flux to 140's all the time and we try to move a lot of them from 140 to branded 180 class.
There is such a leap for the price at that point. 30-40% more money, 2x the machine. However as of late and they get a lot better,,, Everlast is one that uad been here a while but the advent of new technology has allowed clones or close to it for 25% of the cost of the brand now, 250$ for a DVI stick inverter compares to the Maxstar at a grand or more.

 

[fordkid88]

Literally threw these welds down 10 mins ago standing and out of position with an everlast. No complaints here.

 

[dr_clyde]

You should take this opportunity to learn the difference. There is a lot of merit to finding the good economical machine. No one is saying to buy something that wont work and we constantly tell people that ask here that start with price that they might should look up a bit and move to better machines. We move them off the bottom HF flux to 140's all the time and we try to move a lot of them from 140 to branded 180 class.
There is such a leap for the price at that point. 30-40% more money, 2x the machine. However as of late and they get a lot better,,, Everlast is one that uad been here a while but the advent of new technology has allowed clones or close to it for 25% of the cost of the brand now, 250$ for a DVI stick inverter compares to the Maxstar at a grand or more.

I know the difference. I just know what I like and why I like it.

 

[trackwelder]

I know the difference. I just know what I like and why I like it.

Exactly!!! This board has changed a lot over time. I find my self at times typing a reply and then just delete it. I miss the years past.