Multiprocess Welding Machines. Purchase advice needed.

[Corbet]

My son has chosen welding as his career path. He is a sophomore in High School currently. DHS has a good welding program and he is in his 2nd year with the potential to graduate with all his basic certificates.

I currently own a Millermatic 211 MIG machine. Thinking about investing into a multiprocess machine so that he has the ability to practice at home with Stick/TIG/MIG.

The Miller Multimatic 235 looks appealing to me but I don't know anything about them. Multimatic 235 | MillerWelds - https://www.millerwelds.com/equipment/welders/multiprocess/multimatic-235-multiprocess-welder-240v-m30250#!/?product-options-title=multimatic-235-multiprocess-welder-w-ez-latch-dual-cylinder-running-gear-tig-kit-240v-951847

An ESAB Rebel also comes to mind. Both these with all the "stuff" is going to be near $5K.

Then you go on amazon and a cheap assumed POS is like $500 https://www.amazon.com/YESWELDER-Digital-MIG-205DS-Multiprocess-Aluminum/dp/B08CBCB4M5/ref=sr_1_3_sspa?crid=2N3RXOSE61F2X&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.GHl5ACBr9ZghDMg1IJn6oLWPtqRn8rXrlRpkEhMWdA9fyZWZe8qjgz31CSO_Xm3YAvqNUgqkzLqCf8U-LRwmdwR4j1HSODJBf8t7enk1qeWCDV6EZSA1qRNFMrrr_q6OHaLgTa07kuBbi3vT8x4myyEKfumQI1TVG_P6ZEriuGAKcvPvDZhYxQzBs47ugX5ELqF5mtemGlkEzj_LCJa2daRCa2HD-v4LEw1SrA0jZWJESLyGo5snZBpRvDa6xh2Ayi33LCAupHs_aWpELozrF9LIH-j_LXvzeMfwkqUxVo0.bmcSmgR1s4UIfC6X03rxOAyyg7q1doxAblD0-0zDKBw&dib_tag=se&keywords=multi+process+welding+machine&qid=1765474176&sprefix=multi+process+welding+machine,aps,185&sr=8-3-spons&sp_csd=d2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9hdGY&th=1

Or I could pick up some old basic stick machine. Local pawn shop has a Lincoln for $180. I didn't look close at it but we all know the grave stone looking things. Not much to them. Then buy at a dedicated TIG in a year when he gets to that. The single machine is a space saver.

Anyway I've got 220 in the shop. Need some advice from anyone who have used similar. And I know nothing about TIG other than I'd like to learn it also.

 

[aztoyman]

I personally prefer separate machines. MIG is a constant voltage machine and TIG and stick use constant current. So two machines will cover the processes you want to do. I will still have a machine up if the other goes down for whatever reason.

Less expensive is ok if the quality is good and support is available long term. A $hitty welder is just that. You will struggle to get it to run until you just chuck it. Buy the best you can afford. 120 volt machines are ok for small stuff and home repairs and portable stuff out in the wind like gates. 220 volt machines up to at least 200 amps I would think for a home shop. Cheap regulators/flow meters suck so don't cheap out there either. My Victor from 1986 is still working. I've had import models that worked ok but only lasted a year or two at most. No service parts available. I've found U.S. made Harris models for decent prices that have been holding up a long time.

I still run a 110 volt Miller MIG from the mid 80's and I have an HTP 240 AMP MIG machine and HTP 200 AMP inverter TIG I've been running for 14 years. I put a new torch/hose assembly on the TIG recently because one hose started to weep. (Water cooled CK20 torch) Otherwise trouble free. I can still get parts and service for all my stuff.

Good for your kid and good luck with whatever you decide!

 

[aztoyman]

I've run those old Lincoln tombstone stick welders. I didn't like the A/C only machines. The DC runs much better.

 

[Corbet]

I just double checked the used Lincoln tombstone at the pawn shop. It’s an AC225. $180 is pretty cheap, probably get it for less with cash.

 

[AirheadNut]

It depends on what kind of capability you want out of a machine, the multiprocess welders don't do AC, so aluminum TIG is not happening. A while back I went down a rabbit hole of wanting to replace my Millermatic 211 with a single multiprocess machine, but wanted to be able to weld aluminum. I couldn't find any machines that would do AC TIG. Ended up getting a used Miller Dynasty SD on Craigslist and kept the 211. The Dynasty is an AC/DC, TIG and stick machine.

 

[Corbet]

The Multimatic 220 does AC so I’ve leaned that direction on a multi process machine. It’s also what I believe my son is using in the classroom. So that is a plus. Or get the old school Lincoln stick and buy a dedicated TIG later.

Multimatic® 220 AC/DC Multiprocess Welder | MillerWelds

Gives you the freedom to weld any process including AC/DC TIG, MIG, flux-cored, and stick with one portable, powerful, easy to use machine. Setup and switching processes are fast and easy, all while ensuring excellent arc quality using either 120 or 240 v

www.millerwelds.com

 

[AirheadNut]

Cool! I didn't realize the 220 was an AC/DC machine, seems like that would tick all the boxes.

If you're looking for a more budget oriented option I've heard good things about the Primeweld machines, you could get a TIG/Stick machine to complement your 211.

 

[e9999]

Sorry, can't answer your question from a first-hand perspective because I don't have a multiprocess machine. Intentionally. Assuming space does not make that difficult, I prefer having several single-process machines instead. Mostly because I don't like the idea of something going wrong with the big multiprocess one and you lose all work potential at once. Or likely spend $$$ fixing it if you can find parts. In contrast you can find older but good inexpensive single-process machines that will likely do very well at their job and won't be a big loss if they fail (and that is less likely too if simpler.) And they may be a better learning experience for somebody just starting. Just my -far from a pro welder's- opinion.

 

[Corbet]

There are all kinds of good arguments for single process machines. Space is a premium in my garage so the multi process is appealing for that reason. We are not in a big community so not a ton of quality used stuff out there.

 

[mrsleeve]

The big 3 Blue, Red, Yellow box machines are always a good option especially if you are worried about service after the sale,

The green box everlast machines offer very good value for money and lots of features.

If your looking for the closest thing to a one box does it all kinda thing the closest your going to find right now that I know of is the newish HTP revolution, buts it’s quite expensive once you get all the needed equipment for all the processes. Not sure how much stick you guys are going to want to practice with, but it dose lack a “program”. For running a 6010 electrode, will it keep one lit and run it probably. I mention this as you said your son has chosen to learn how to weld for a career path, if he’s planing on going into the pipe trades (API codes in particular). He’s going to have to get really good running a 6010 down hill for root passes.

HTP® Revolution 2500

Designed by welders for welders! We listened and built the world’s first TRUE PULSE multi process welder. This machine will revolutionize how America welds! Don’t waste any more time on setup or rework. Have everything you need always available at your fingertips. Arc dynamic, efficiency...

usaweld.com

my recommendation is like others have said keep you blue box 211 and keep your eyes on the marketplace for a used ac/dc tig machine as they will SMAW great too. I have seen lots of older analog machines out there with awesome real world capabilities with out the digital fancy stuff selling for fractions of new.

auto set up programs and digital helpers are great for after you can weld or if your just doing hobby projects in the garage and are recreational welder to aid in getting good results with less than great technique. When your in the field and welding off the back of a rig truck, it a different ball game, as there are variables those programs can’t account for.

Just my 2 cents, I am not a welder by trade, nor am I very good at it personally, I am just the guy the keeps welders honest.

 

[Marvelicious]

So, I'm just going to throw this out there at the risk of getting flamed to cinders by the "buy 'murican" crowd who are inexplicably very present on this Japanese car forum ( ), but I DO know my way around a weld. At this point in the industry, he'd be far better served with multi-process experience. Stick is still used out in the field, but even TIG is more common and MIG leaves them both behind in the trades I work around.

More specifically, first I wouldn't waste any time or energy on an AC stick machine at this point - those deserve to be a forgotten relic. You can never go wrong with Miller, and most of the other big names are solid as well, but here's the part that I'm expecting to be flamed for. In the interest of getting capabilities that weren't in my budget at the time, I took the risk on an import and picked up an Everlast AC/DC tig/stick machine a few years back. I have not had a single regret. Surprisingly capable little machine, and it has been trouble free. It's Chinese manufacturing, but the people you deal with are here in the states. I had to talk to them about an order FedEx misrouted and they were responsive. I've heard warranty service CAN be slow if something has to be shipped back and forth, but I've never had to use it.

Edit: I see @mrsleeve mentioned Everlast before I could hit post...

 

[mrsleeve]

Wrong thread

 

[Corbet]

I agree on the Lincoln AC stick machine is a relic and referred to a Tombstone is pretty ironic at this point.

But for $200 I could have him welding with it at tomorrow and his stick certification is what he is working on this year as a sophomore. I don’t think he will touch TIG until he is a senior. This buys me plenty of time to find a deal on a TIG or multiprocess.

 

[aztoyman]

That AC Lincoln will work. AC stick is more difficult to run compared to a DC machine. Especially for a beginner. Just something to consider.

 

[Corbet]

Sounds like a what does not kill you makes you stronger kind of thing.

 

[aztoyman]

True. In my first semester of my welding program, we used Lincoln and Miller machines. We used DC machines for the stick welding and JUST when us newbies were feeling comfortable we had to switch to AC machines. Quite a difference. But they do work and that exercise helped us to better understand the process. We never wanted to use AC stick again if we didn't HAVE to.

 

[Marvelicious]

We never wanted to use AC stick again if we didn't HAVE to.

And no one should.

@Corbet you know your kid, so you know how likely he is to keep going on something when he hits a snag, but my opinion is that the old AC machine is just setting him up for failure. Even if you don't go for multiprocess, I'd keep an eye out for a DC stick machine at minimum. There's a reason those old AC machines litter pawn shops all across the country, but you never see anyone using one.

 

[Marvelicious]

Another thought on the common pawn shop items... I'd stay clear of those little flux-core-only mig machines and anything that's 110v only. A lot of the newer inverter based stuff can run on 220v or 110v (at reduced capacity) and that's fine.

 

[DanS HJ-45]

Corbet:

I'd suggest reaching out to Blue Sean and asking his opinion. You happen to know a really, really good welder, who also has some really good insight on multiprocess machines, budget machines, and doing real big welding work.

I'm personally planning on buying an Everlast pretty soon, just to get some TiG capability and better stick (inverter based) welding. We have a couple tombstone/buzz box stick welders, which are fine for some simple stuff, but they are pretty clumsy compared to modern welders.

Dan

 

[Malleus]

The big 3 Blue, Red, Yellow box machines are always a good option especially if you are worried about service after the sale,

The green box everlast machines offer very good value for money and lots of features.

If your looking for the closest thing to a one box does it all kinda thing the closest your going to find right now that I know of is the newish HTP revolution, buts it’s quite expensive once you get all the needed equipment for all the processes. Not sure how much stick you guys are going to want to practice with, but it dose lack a “program”. For running a 6010 electrode, will it keep one lit and run it probably. I mention this as you said your son has chosen to learn how to weld for a career path, if he’s planing on going into the pipe trades (API codes in particular). He’s going to have to get really good running a 6010 down hill for root passes.

HTP® Revolution 2500

Designed by welders for welders! We listened and built the world’s first TRUE PULSE multi process welder. This machine will revolutionize how America welds! Don’t waste any more time on setup or rework. Have everything you need always available at your fingertips. Arc dynamic, efficiency...

usaweld.com

my recommendation is like others have said keep you blue box 211 and keep your eyes on the marketplace for a used ac/dc tig machine as they will SMAW great too. I have seen lots of older analog machines out there with awesome real world capabilities with out the digital fancy stuff selling for fractions of new.

auto set up programs and digital helpers are great for after you can weld or if your just doing hobby projects in the garage and are recreational welder to aid in getting good results with less than great technique. When your in the field and welding off the back of a rig truck, it a different ball game, as there are variables those programs can’t account for.

Just my 2 cents, I am not a welder by trade, nor am I very good at it personally, I am just the guy the keeps welders honest.

^This

Everything else is Chinese. HTP is Italian, made in Italy. For the money, I think these are the best welders made. This Old Tony likes them too.