flux core vs mig welder

[haryv]

Some day, would like to buy a used miller or lincoln welder to weld up some patch work on the fenders of my truck but funds say no. I have seen some really good quality flux core welding but only though images. Can flux core do fairly decent body panel welding?

Also, would not mind trading services just to have this done "I work in a shop to help out the owner in exchange for work on my truck" in the Delta/Surrey area of BC.

Thanks for the welder feedback!

 

[safari435]

I use a Hobart 140 with flux core ( at home) and it works o.k. for repairs on my FJ 60. At work we have a Miller mig and even though it is a quality machine, I think my hobart works well enough....however I recommend that if you buy a flux core make sure it can be converted to mig ( just incase) and also buy good wire.....

 

[haryv]

safari, can you recomend?

How does your hobart compare to the millermatic or the lincoln 140 mig? Again, this will be used off of 115 volt power less then 1/4 inch steel if that what these small units can do.

 

[PAToyota]

Some day, would like to buy a used miller or lincoln welder to weld up some patch work on the fenders of my truck

I'd never use flux core on sheet metal work. You want gas shielded MIG for body work.

 

[safari435]

I like the hobart 140 - with gas it will weld as good as the millermatic and for most car (body) work there is no problem with overheathing ( I believe it's 20% @ 90 amp cycle). Flux core doesn't make as nice welds ( more grinding) but i had no problems for sheet metal work on the FJ 60 ( I used 20 ga). Since it comes with all the mig attachments, if you use the flux core and don't like it you can " upgrade by buying a CO2 cylinder or even rent one ( you could tack everything you need and then rent a tank for a day or two and finish welding....). The plus side of flux core - no problems outside ( mig and wind doesn't mix) and a smaller welding tip ( can get in tight spaces....
I like the Hobart alot and it also has good resale value ( it's hard to sell a HF after you find out you don't like them or don't need a welder anymore - and I have tried a HF of a friends...... let's say this: I thought he just can't weld but after he used my Hobart , he bought one and fancies himself a good welder....