Mid Range Tig Welder Options

[btdobie]

REPOST POLICE: Ok I know that there are multiple existing threads on the subject and I've read them, but all the ones I found were a couple years old. Since then some new models have emerged, so I believe it's time for an update.

EVERYONE ELSE: I'm looking to graduate from MIG welding and make the move into TIG welding. I want a unit that will have good welding characteristics for a beginner(so not Chicago electric), but won't break the bank(So no blue or red). I currently have no interest in welding Aluminum so a DC unit will suffice. Realistically it will probably see about 30hours of weld time a year max.

My initial instinct was to go on Craigslist and try to score a good price on a used Miller or Lincoln, but, atleast in my area, the used ones go for only slightly less than new ones. So now I'm looking at new mid range TIG welder. The two brands I have looked at the most have been Everlasting and thermal arc. I am not set on a size yet, but I imagine something in the 200 amp range could easily handle anything I ever want to do.

One option I have kicked around but not looked at seriously is trying to buy a broken Lincoln or Miller and fix it, but I imagine one would be hard to find since those brands rarely break.

 

[WILD-BILL]

I own the Everlast 225LX. And we are currently talking about getting the 250 EX at work.

I choose them not only based on the amp range but also the controls and features not to mention the duty cycle.

Honestly, if I had know then what I know now, I would have gotten the EX from the start. Better AC balance control and more pulse control.

You may not have the itch to due aluminum now but once you get the hang of tig you're probably gonna want to so getting a machine that you can do anything with should at least be a consideration.

Just my opinion.

 

[txvwnut]

AHP Alphaweld Tig200, lotta welder for a little cash. I don't think you'll be disappointed if you get one.

http://www.ahpwelds.com

 

[Mhyde52]

What's your actual budget?

If you are not doing an AC model, what are you doing that requires 200A?

First thought would be one of the Miller maxstar 150A jobs, slightly used.

 

[trackwelder]

What's your actual budget?

If you are not doing an AC model, what are you doing that requires 200A?

First thought would be one of the Miller maxstar 150A jobs, slightly used.

And from one of the best in the business for parts and service.

 

[Mhyde52]

And from one of the best in the business for parts and service.

I have a dialarc 250, millermatic 251, and trailblazer 275dc. Never an issue with any of them.

 

[btdobie]

What's your actual budget?

If you are not doing an AC model, what are you doing that requires 200A?

First thought would be one of the Miller maxstar 150A jobs, slightly used.

My budget is right around $800. I could push it up as high as 1000 if the right Miller or Lincoln unit shows up on the Market, but all the ones near me seem to be in the $2000 range used.

I don't need 200 for anything that I'm planning right now, but I would like to have the option to weld thicker metals.

 

[btdobie]

I own the Everlast 225LX. And we are currently talking about getting the 250 EX at work.

I choose them not only based on the amp range but also the controls and features not to mention the duty cycle.

Honestly, if I had know then what I know now, I would have gotten the EX from the start. Better AC balance control and more pulse control.

You may not have the itch to due aluminum now but once you get the hang of tig you're probably gonna want to so getting a machine that you can do anything with should at least be a consideration.

Just my opinion.

Thanks for the feedback. From most of what I've read it seems people like the Everlast welders when they are working.

Perhaps I should consider a an AC/DC welder incase I change my mind in the future. For now my main focus is on stainless steel though.

 

[btdobie]

Found this one on CL today. Seems like a decent deal, but it's 3hours away. Thoughts?
http://minneapolis.craigslist.org/wsh/tls/5848848913.html