Anyone have any comments on a Miller 135? I'm looking to buy a used mig and after reading some posts, looks like I can't go wrong with a Hobart, Lincoln, or Miller. I'd like to get the highest amperage 110V welder I can find and I've seen some used Miller 135's. Does anyone know how they compare to a new Miller 140? Or have any other suggestions? I need to mention I'm a beginner welder and plan on doing mostly bodywork and have access (via my mechanic cousin's garage) to a 220V machine whenever I need something bigger.
Stick with Miller, Hobart, or Lincoln if you want something that will last and have re-sale value.
Miller and Hobart will have better customer service than Lincoln.
Millermatic 135 is going to give you 135 amps at max output, Millermatic 140 will give you 140 amps.
Not a big deal IMHO since the duty cycle at max output will most likely be less than 5%. Both welders are rated at 90 amps at 20@ duty cycle. Realistic max thickness with solid wire is 1/8". 3/16" using flux core.
The newer Millermatic 140 will have the autoset feature which will automatically set the welding parmeters for you. Supposed to work pretty well, but not a big deal since these welders are real easy to dial in.
I would buy a 230V welder if I had to buy just one welder. I'd look real hard at Hobart Handler 187, 210 and Millermatic 211 if you need a welder that is portable.
If you plan on buying more welders, then get the little 110v welder and buy more powerful ones later.
Use .023 wire for body work. All else, use .030 wire for these little welders.
