Generator question

[619DioFan]

I am looking to pick up a generator that will be used primarily to run an older Lincoln 220 arc welder ( the tombstone ) this will be used in a DIY setting and not every day. what HP , running wattage would you recommend to provide the proper amount of power to run the mentioned welder ? Thanks.

 

[vga]

What is the max current/amp draw of the welder. What voltage does it req ??

 

[burnedzr2]

How many amps does it pull? My welder has a 50 amp circuit. My Honda 5000 watt generator only has a 30 amp circuit. My 20,000 watt Onan has 50 amp circuit .

 

[619DioFan]

I will have to check on the amp draw for this welder. it is a 220 volt arc welder. I do have a dedicated circuit for it at the house , just looking to be able to use it away from the house.

 

[619DioFan]

Just did some looking around at the Lincoln website . according to their FAQ section the 220 arc welder needs a generator in the 15,000 to 20,000 watt range. far more then I care to spend.

 

[jonjon1]

If you need 30a I love this genny, I have 2 of them, they never skipped a beat.. http://www.troybilt.com/equipment/troybilt/troy-generators/7000-running-watt-generator-030477

if you need 50a I would look into the generac 15KW or 17KW , but at that price you can get a decent gas welder...
I paid $2200 for my Miller blue star brand new and my bobcat was just over $3000 {and that will mig}

 

[rlitman]

It is usually cheaper to buy a gas powered welder and use that as a generator too, than to buy a generator to power a welder.

 

[RedneckWelder]

You will need 30amps to run at the lower amperage ranges. Running balls out on a tombstone requires a good bit more.

For the cost of a decent generator with the capacity you need you may be able to find an engine drive in your area.

 

[619DioFan]

Appreciate the feedback. I have a " low end " 110 volt flux core mig that is ok for lite stuff but not so much for anything remotely thick. will probably just upgrade that to a good gas shielded mig that can handle thicker stuff and leave the arc welder were it is.

 

[RedneckWelder]

Appreciate the feedback. I have a " low end " 110 volt flux core mig that is ok for lite stuff but not so much for anything remotely thick. will probably just upgrade that to a good gas shielded mig that can handle thicker stuff and leave the arc welder were it is.

If you are looking for portability, you aren't going to get appreciably thicker with even the best 110v Mig. 1/8 to 3/16 at best.

Of course if you ever actually HAVE to do any thicker welding away from the shop, you can always rent an engine drive...even with a suitcase feeder for dualshield/fluxcore work. Better that than having an expensive engine drive of your own sitting around doing nothing most of the time.