[Shop-talk] MIG Welders

[E.A. Driver]

Not really  I think the Lincoln 180C is the best product in the small 
light weight MIG type welders
Hobart is a Miller clone.

Kind regards
Ed

Jim Stone wrote:
> I am getting ready to buy a new MIG Welder and have some questions of the
> group.  To date, I have only used two types of welders: the professional ones
> at the welding class I took a few years ago and a very cheap flux core welder
> (hi/low and slow/fast switches) that a neighbor gave me.  Whatever I buy will
> only be used occasionally.  I want it for light auto repair/restoration and
> for home projects.
>
> So, on to my questions.  First, is getting a 220V one worth the loss of
> versatility?  I have 100 amp 220 service in my garage where most of my welding
> would be done, but this would certainly limit my ability to take it anywhere.
> Am I better off just going with a decent 110V model?  Something like a 140 Amp
> Hobart Handler
> (http://www.northerntool.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/product_6970_200306073
> _200306073)?
>
> Second, how much better will something like the Hobart be with flux core wire
> than the cheapo one I have now?  Stated differently, do I really need to go to
> the trouble of renting a gas cylinder for my occasional use?  It seems a shame
> to go to the expense of renting something that is going to sit unused 350 days
> a year.  I know shielding gas will give me a much cleaner weld (and also know
> what a crap job my current unit does).  Will I be unhappy with flux core
> regardless of how much I spend on the welder?
>
> Finally, shopping around I notice that Northern Industrial sells units under
> their own name.  Their 135 amp model
> http://www.northerntool.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/product_6970_200332691_
> 200332691) has similar specs to the Hobart, but is $100 less.  Does anyone
> know anything about this?  Is the Hobart worth the difference?
>
> As always, thanks in advance!
>
> Jim
>
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