I need help choosing a welder

[Fender1325]

Looking at getting a new welder.

Like anyone else Im budget conscious. Im new to welding as well.

I had the Harbor Freight 90 amp flux core welder for like 3 days and the wire feed became so erratic that I got pissed off and returned it. I dont have gas or 220 outlets so I figured this would be a great learner. If that dang wire feed was smooth Id have nothing bad to say overall. It was fun while it lasted and quite strong. I practiced on 16 gauge sheet with .035 wire.

Now Ive realized what many others do - you gotta spend more to get something to work well.

Heres my issue. Im looking at welders that range from about 230-350 in price range. Lincoln, Hobart, Forney, Eastwood, and Campbell Hausfeld. These run on standard outlet power, and have the capability to do both flux core (for learning now) and gas mig for the future when I do floorpans and body panels, plus they have more heat settings which will really help with lighter gauge. Some, like the lincoln for example max out at 1/8" where as others can do 1/4. Id like the ability to do 1/4 if I ever need to make a gate or table.

When I read the reviews of these welders theyre generally good, but I still see guys complaining about erratic wire speed feed (something that really pisses me off and ruin's the bead for me), and the internals on many hardly look much better than the dang harbor freight! Plastic wire feeds mainly.

Am I to believe that unless I spend over $600, I'm stuck with american versions of HF welders with the same problems?

I understand 220 power is best and all, but Im still learning and Im not going to save up 1000 just for a welder to do what it says it will.

Thoughts?

 

[Lx460]

Do you know how to adjust the wire tension properly? That's where I would start.

Unfortunately, with a max budget of $350 that pretty much rules out any MIG from Miller, Lincoln, or ESAB

Have you looked on CL for a USED unit from a reputable manufacturer?

 

[btbsandman]

Take a welding class if you havent. Then assess your skills. Do you go with Mig or Stick?
Many options to think about.

 

[Buckgnarly]

16 gauge with .035 wire?....that's a pretty thick wire for sheetmetal.

Look for used machines on CL, all my stuff HH175, Miller 210, Miller Thunderbolt Xl have come used. There are some good deals out there, especially 110 machines.

 

[minimowog]

if you're on a limited budget, buy a better secondhand unit then a cheap new unit.

if you want to be doing car bodywork you need to be looking at the min amps the machine can weld at, med price welders will go to 30 amps, this is ideal for clean steel, however welding rusty/thin metal lower is better, i bought my machine 2nd hand and it goes down to 15amps, my wire feed motor is as big as a windscreen wiper motor and i dont have wire feed problems

mig welding is better when using co2/argon gas

if you want to be welding thick metal, stick is cheaper

 

[ishiboo]

I'd say go with used as well. Largest Miller/Hobart 120v machine you can find.

 

[zkling]

Start off with a roll of 0.030" wire in your current machine. Stepping up to the mig process would really help, but you will need a gas cylinder. Do you know anyone (co worker, friend of friend, class mate, etc) that would be willing to try your machine and show you a thing or two?

Look for a new or used lincoln, hobart or miller ~100-140amp class machine.

How far is the dryer or stove plug?
Are your 110v outlets 15 or 20amp?

1/4" on 110v is pretty ambitious.

Welders are one place where you will find a huge difference in quality at certain price points.

 

[hackwelder]

The Hobart 140 gets great reviews here and elsewhere, about $500. FWIW I've run my 230V Miller 172 from 30 amp dryer outlets as suggested above without any problems, made up my own extension/adapter cord per the specs in the welders owners manual

 

[wild cowboy]

In your price range, the best quality for the money is going to be the Hobart.

 

[f575gtc]

I bought a Hobart 140 with 40cuft tank for $250 of CL it is only 110v but welds leaps and bounds better than the older 120amp dual mig HF I used to have.


I also have a Eastwood 175mig I haven't used yet, will report on it soon.

 

[Fender1325]

Thanks for the replies.

Im a bit weary of buying used simply because I dont know how they were treated, and if something breaks I have no warranty protection.

I just watched videos and read up on the eastwood 135 mig. I have to say its quite impressive and is only $200. Does 24 gauge up to 1/4 mild steel and also does stainless. It runs on home outlets and does flux core as well. 3 year warranty, and essentially theyre targeting lincoln's offerings.

The lincoln in question for me is the handy mig which can only do up to 1/8 mild steel. It has 4 heat settings rather than the dial the eastwood has. I can get the lincoln for about 330.

 

[sac02]

I am not a welder by trade, or even a serious hobbyist. I only weld something 1/4 or thicker a few times a year. If you fall in that category as well, don't discount the 110v machines (as seems to o be the trend on this forum). I have a Hobart Handler 140 and it is great.

Unless you constantly need to weld thick plate where speed and efficiency is an issue, a 110 machine can do just as well for the occasional project, just with more time needed (preheat/multiple passes). The 110 machines have a lot of advantages when it comes to portability, for example.

I'm an engineer at a large mfg facility, and unless we are talking special instances like new construction (expand the facility) or installing a new piece of large equipment where we use 480v, the 110v machines do about 90% or more of the welding.

 

[ishiboo]

Thanks for the replies.

Im a bit weary of buying used simply because I dont know how they were treated, and if something breaks I have no warranty protection.

I just watched videos and read up on the eastwood 135 mig. I have to say its quite impressive and is only $200. Does 24 gauge up to 1/4 mild steel and also does stainless. It runs on home outlets and does flux core as well. 3 year warranty, and essentially theyre targeting lincoln's offerings.

The lincoln in question for me is the handy mig which can only do up to 1/8 mild steel. It has 4 heat settings rather than the dial the eastwood has. I can get the lincoln for about 330.

As long as it works when you buy it, I think buying a used name brand is still a better option. And the name brands typically have good parts availability unlike the imports.

Hobarts are good machines, my old Handler 130(I believe) was the same as the equivalent Miller, except a thermoplastic wire feeder instead of the cast one on the Miller. But as an example, going to 3/16 or 1/4" it would work but now that I have a Miller 252 I realize that having extra power is REALLY handy to have.

So, again... I recommend the biggest 120v welder you can find in a name brand... if that's used, you're still better off IMO.

 

[Scout Driver]

As others have said, the Hobart 140 is a great welder. I've had mine for a little over a year and have nothing but good things to say about it.

It wouldn't hurt to make sure you have an outlet with at least a 20 amp breaker to plug it into. 30 amp would be even better.

Scott

 

[Fender1325]

For a while my only use will be small projects (tables/stools, boxes, smoker, etc) but My main project will be my 1950 cadillac. Needs floor patching, trunk, rockers and maybe doors.

I know I could get a superior welder at a discount used, but it still makes me a little nervous. A quick craigslist scan showed a few high end snap on welders (imagine getting parts for them as a home hobbyist) and some crappy old craftsman. There was one hobart but he wanted nearly new price.

The eastman I can return in 60 days if its just not cutting it, and then I have the protection of 3 years which if I really take to welding Id imagine buying a higher end lincoln.

I'll mull over it before I pull the trigger. But hey, hundreds of good reviews of the eastman.

 

[c4cruiser]

I would try stopping at a local welding supply place and ask if they have any used welders that came in as a trade-in. You should be able to get decent deals on 110v machines.

I have a Lincoln 140 ProMig that I bought new at Lowe's; it was a return so I got a good discount on it. IIRC, I paid something like $375 for it and it was never used. I can weld 1/4 mild steel using flux-core wire with it as long as I bevel the edges and make a couple passes. Not the prettiest welds, but it holds! I do have a dedicated 20A circuit for the welder; using a 15A circuit just isn't enough for larger material.

One thing to consider is welding with C-25. It can cost up to roughly $200 depending on tank size and anywhere from $35 to $50 to re-fill it.

Do you already have good gloves, a good helmet, lots of clamps, at least 2 grinders, and other accessories? All that stuff adds up too.

 

[erty67]

You best bet new would be that Eastwood for $200. If you look for used, there are great deals if you catch them at the right time. I wouldn't be scared of a used Lincoln/Hobart/Miller as long as it doesn't look beat to hell. I think you would find the Eastwood to be leaps and bounds over the 90a HF welder.

 

[theoldwizard1]

Using gas will ALWAYS produce a better weld, so make sure that whatever you buy you have that option.

Dual voltage units are a good idea !

Don't turn your nose up at "quality" import units like those from Longevity or Everlast if price is important.

 

[454ragtop]

I'd recommend used as well, have 3 welders all bought used in my shop. Don't bother with Snap On welders unless they're dirt cheap, they were way over priced when new, and most sellers seem to think they should still be over priced. Snap On didn't make their own welders, slapped their name on someone elses. Look for a Hobart, Miller, Lincoln, or even a Thermal Dynamics. Need to able to use gas to do decent work on automotive sheet metal. Can you use gas with that Eastwood?
Good luck, Jim.

 

[BD1]

Stick with Miller, Lincoln, or Hobart. What's your location ? 120 volt machines are always listed on craigs list in my area. Yes, most try to get new prices for older machines. The small Hobarts are always on sale somewhere.
http://www.northerntool.com/shop/tools/product_200471413_200471413
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B009X43F38/?tag=atomicindus08-20
http://www.hobartweldshop.com/servlet/the-133/refurbished-welders/Detail
http://www.hobartweldshop.com/servlet/the-132/refurbished-mig-welders/Detail
You will do a better job with .023 wire,[ easy grind is great for body work ] and a tank of 75/25. Get a package deal from local supplier on machine, tank, and goodies.

 

[erty67]

Can you use gas with that Eastwood?

Yes. It's basically an imported Lincoln SP135 clone.

 

[Fender1325]

Im down to lincoln handy mig and eastwood 135.

Both are standard outlet flux core OR gas compatible.

The lincoln is about $350. It does 24 gauge up to 1/8 mild steel. I think it has like 30-80 amps? It has 4 set power controls and an infinite wire speed.

Eastwood is $215 shipped for me. It does 24 gauge to 1/4 mild and stainless steel. I think it has 25-130 amps. It has infinite power and wire speed controls, and includes gauges for the gas line.

We're basically going with cheaper price/more features vs. better reputation but more expensive and less features.

 

[erty67]

of those two, I'd say the Eastwood is a no brainer.

 

[ishiboo]

Using gas will ALWAYS produce a better weld, so make sure that whatever you buy you have that option.

Dual voltage units are a good idea !

Don't turn your nose up at "quality" import units like those from Longevity or Everlast if price is important.

Not sure about "always", it depends on your conditions. For the bodywork I would definitely use gas, but trying to do structural (1/4 as OP wants) welding on a 120v machine is a great application for FCAW.

The imports are so hard to determine as many have a ton of shill reviews of all of their stuff, which to me should be illegal and fraud if it's not. I think overall the design of the newer units has been good and they weld decently. However, there seem to be legitimate complaints about all of the "top-tier" budget brands, and some use fake fraudulent reviews to promote their products. The name brands get you very consistent performance, customer service, and parts availability now and in the future.

 

[Rock knocker]

GMAW does not "always" produce a better weld than FCAW. It is dependent on the base materials and conditions.

 

[Tronyadorable]

I would try stopping at a local welding supply place and ask if they have any used welders that came in as a trade-in. You should be able to get decent deals on 110v machines.

I have a Lincoln 140 ProMig that I bought new at Lowe's; it was a return so I got a good discount on it. IIRC, I paid something like $375 for it and it was never used. I can weld 1/4 mild steel using flux-core wire with it as long as I bevel the edges and make a couple passes. Not the prettiest welds, but it holds! I do have a dedicated 20A circuit for the welder; using a 15A circuit just isn't enough for larger material.

One thing to consider is welding with C-25. It can cost up to roughly $200 depending on tank size and anywhere from $35 to $50 to re-fill it.

Do you already have good gloves, a good helmet, lots of clamps, at least 2 grinders, and other accessories? All that stuff adds up too.

With low amp machines use straight CO2. Cheaper and a little better penetration. You don't get the spatter everyone whines about until you get in the higher amp ranges.
I welded the anchor chains for Noahs ark.
Both the Hobart and the Lincoln 140 are good machines for tubing work. Up to 1/8" or so wall thickness. A little more if you cheat and are good.
I use .023 exclusively in my 110 machine..030 in the bigger ones w/C25 mix.
.035 is for the big boyz. I haven't burned any in almost 20 years.
If I'm welding 1/2" and above I prefer a 7018 electrode.

 

[Showkey]

Im down to lincoln handy mig and eastwood 135.

Both are standard outlet flux core OR gas compatible.

The lincoln is about $350. It does 24 gauge up to 1/8 mild steel. I think it has like 30-80 amps? It has 4 set power controls and an infinite wire speed.

Eastwood is $215 shipped for me. It does 24 gauge to 1/4 mild and stainless steel. I think it has 25-130 amps. It has infinite power and wire speed controls, and includes gauges for the gas line.

We're basically going with cheaper price/more features vs. better reputation but more expensive and less features.

of those two, I'd say the Eastwood is a no brainer.

EASTWOOD has a very good product and well as support.

Their larger machine is out of the OP budget........but for others it comes with a spool gun.: and sells for about $500

 

[BD1]

Most negative comments posted on welding sites on the imports are deleted by the manufactures. Some will do warranty repairs but YOU PAY SHIPPING and be prepared to wait. From reading reviews it could take two, four, or many weeks to get your machine returned. Choose wisely.

 

[Fender1325]

Guys Ive been reading the heck out of reviews and racking my brain over and over. I dont want to buy ****. Ive decided on the hobart handler 140. Besides the general excellent reputation of that machine, what really got me was that aluminum drive wire feed. No plastic BS. And of course the made in USA makes you feel good. What ultimately killed the lincoln handy mig was the fact that it only has a 1 year warranty. No bueno. I want it to last. So im extending my reach to that hobart and call it a day.

 

[BD1]

I know you will be happy , wise choice. Do you have a Tractor supply near you ? They have a one day 15% off in store special on entire purchase Jan 1 only.

http://view.ex.tractorsupply.com/?j...111&jb=ff5d1c7372&ju=fe6116737d60037e7416&r=0

 

[Fender1325]

Dang. Theres one south of me in SC, but too late now, i already ordered from amazon

 

[erty67]

great 110 welder. good luck with it.

 

[Fender1325]

My Hobart came in yesterday. I ran 2 quick small beads with the flux wire and it was like night and day difference from my harbor freight. Very pleased. I havent done much else though as it is freakin COLD out right now. Im not positive but the edges of the gauges for the gas might be cracked. I attached pictures to show you guys.

 

[CNGsaves]

So you got the Hobart Handler 140 from Amazon . . . . how much??

The deal at Tractor Supply was around $450 after discount.

+1 that regulator gauge looks cracked . . . might as well get it replaced.

 

[Fender1325]

It was 499 at amazon. Oh well. The only contact at hobart as far as email is a contact fill out form on their website so I cant attach pictures. Theyll hopefully respond so I can send the pictures and see what they say.

 

[Moose364]

The Hobart will serve you well, and anything you need for it can be picked up at your LWS, they are the same as the Miller 140 welder's. if you notice a lot of the stuff inside will have miller sticker's on it, I know my trigger and lead came in a Miller box and has Miller on the side of the gun, Very good choice OP. be sure and go meet the guy at your LWS a lot of them have free classes and demo day when you can go try out the new stuff.

 

[theoldwizard1]

Using gas will ALWAYS produce a better weld, so make sure that whatever you buy you have that option.

Not sure about "always", it depends on your conditions.

I broke my own self-imposed rules are never using absolutes. (Wait, isn't "never" an absolute?)

I should have said "using gas USUALLY produces a better weld" !

 

[Fender1325]

Just heard back from Hobarts excellent customer service already. Keith ensured me they are just lines from the mold where the lense mounts to the body. I'll take his word for it. I also wont be using them for a while as itll be a while before I get a gas tank and weld with gas.

 

[JonDick13926]

I didn't read every post, so if someone else already mentioned this, my bad.

But,

http://www.northerntool.com/shop/tools/product_200447703_200447703

I paid less with free shipping for mine on eBay. 120V, flux core and gas optional. I'm not much of a welder either, just when it needs to be done. So far this thing has worked great. You have to buy a different tip for flux wire welding. It doesn't come with one like that.

 

[Ign]

I see the OP made a choice, but a few observations from the thread: 1) 16ga is damn thin for a beginner with flux wire of any diameter. 2) I hate .030 self shielding. Don't know why but it bird nests SOOO much more easily than .035.

If the OP was able to run continuous beads in 16ga w his HF machine, kudos! If you were blowing through, practice on 1/8 for awhile and then return to 16ga, even start w welding 16ga to 1/8" as that'll be more forgiving.