Lincoln HD100 vs HD3200

[cgrutt]

Hi I currently own a Lincoln HD100 120v 80a (I think) welder that I converted to MIG by adding solenoid and AR/CO2 tank. I don't weld much and only have current plans to use it to weld a wheel arch patch panel onto my pickup. The HD100 seems to work ok but I know it is limited in power.

Just saw an HD3200 on CL for $150 (asking). I believe is a 120v 135a version of the same welder that comes from factory with the MIG solenoid installed. It is an older model that was made to be sold at Home Depot (as well as HD100) and I believe has been replaced by the HD140. According to post, welder is in "good" condition.

Anybody have any experience with the HD3200? Would this be a good upgrade to my current HD100 or should I just wait and buy a "real" welder when time comes? Besides wheel arch, only other expected uses would be for minor repairs on lawn equipment, etc.

Thanks.

 

[zkling]

I think I would go for it, if it is clean and not abused, it is an OK upgrade, not night and day. You will gain some top end but not much on duty cycle. Most 110v machines are limited at ~90amp and 20%.

 

[cgrutt]

Thanks.

 

[shoot summ]

I have the 3200, works great, does most everything I want to do.

For the heavier stuff I use flux core, but honestly don't have that many times that I weld anything that thick. Also have access to an Arc welder that I use for the thick material.

 

[Ohmthis]

I used to have an HD 3200. I thought it was a great little mig. I used it for many projects ranging from automotive sheet metal to 1/4" structural type (adding brackets to a trailer and a sulky for a walk behind mower. It worked great for what I asked it to. I upgraded to 180a model lincloln because I wanted to do bigger projects. I'd see if you can get it for ~$100 or so. Those go for about $200-225 here.