Miller Econotig and thin aluminum

[rmadursk]

I am looking at TIG welders and have found a good deal on a Miller Econotig. I have looked at the forums and the only negative thing I have found on the unit is that it is not very good at welding thin aluminum. I think it was the range of adjustment on the amperage given as the reason, I didn't write it down so that may not have been it.

Does anyone have experience with this welder on thin aluminum. Mostly 1/8" (8 or 9 guage) but at times I may want to do 1/16" (14 or 15 guage, I think)?

If the experience was successful, was there anything in particular that you had to do to make it work properly?

Thanks,

Ron

 

[redcorvetteman3]

What are you going to tig/make?

 

[rmadursk]

Formula car parts. Sidepods, air vents for cooling air, battery boxes, enclosures for fuel cells and oil tanks, some repair work on body panels, aero dividers, brackets, mounts, etc...

Thanks,

Ron

 

[dmeray1]

I got this for Christmas...worth a look. You could fab roll cages with it as well.

 

[jim.mullen]

The Econotig has a starting amperage rating of 30 amps, but in practice the one I used seemed to fire off at 50-60 amps, judging by how easy it was to blow holes in thin Al and Steel. I'd shy away from this welder for thin metals. I own a Dynasty 200 DX and it works well for thin gauge stuff.

 

[waggie]

if cost is an issue, check out Syncrowave 180. Those can be had with a cooler for around $1200.

 

[WILD-BILL]

If you can;t find a Sync 180, I'd suggest looking into the Everlast brand.

I have one of there 225LX tig welders and love it.