Welders

[slimbuddha]

I have done some welding in HS, and as recent as last summer to make some gates for my yard. Basic square frame, with gussets, and used wood pickets. I even had to customize the hangers, as I had already put hangers in the wall when I had the block wall put in.

It was a borrowed ( Lincoln 225 stick welder i think), and now I am looking to purchase one used or new to make some sliders, as well as possibly a roof rack (not quite ready to venture into a bumper).

I am looking for something cheap (no more than $250ish). I will consider new or used (some Chicago Electric welders at Harbor freight for around $200), and would prefer it be much cheaper. I am sure once I get better, I may consider "upgrading", but for the next couple years, I don't think I will do much if any besides these two projects. I am open to stick, line fed, etc.

Any recommendations? or am I off my rocker?

 

[Pin_Head]

You are in luck: Used Lincoln "buzz" boxes are cheap and they never wear out or lose their value. Look on Craig's list.

 

[hydrogeo]

X2 on the Lincoln.

 

[Wile E Coyote]

Based upon your parameters, x3 on the Lincoln. They have a LONG track record.

 

[fj40charles]

Craigslist is a great place to find used stuff. Just make sure you have cash and you're ready to jump on a deal. They don't last more than a couple of hours. Stick welder will be your cheapest option. If you want a wire feed, look for a used Miller, Hobart, or Lincoln. You will not like the performance of a cheap harbour freight welder and it will have very little re-sale value.

 

[BooKilla]

x3 on the lincoln....i have one....so you know it must be good...

 

[alex e]

If you want to weld on your body tub do you get a MIG or TIG or what? I'd like to learn to repair my own stuff rather than buy a welder for the body shop guy.

We have a Miller stick welder at our farm that is nice, but what about something for here in town? Sorry for the hijack.

 

[Gold Boy]

Lincoln welder / 110 flux core.

imo

 

[fj40charles]

If you want to weld on your body tub do you get a MIG or TIG or what? I'd like to learn to repair my own stuff rather than buy a welder for the body shop guy.

We have a Miller stick welder at our farm that is nice, but what about something for here in town? Sorry for the hijack.

Mig is what you want. Run shielding gas. Get a a brand name welder and 230 volts so you don't outgrow it unless you want to own more than 1 mig welder.

 

[BooKilla]

If you want the maximum amp range, get 110v and 220v mig welders. For realistic application, you will not max out a 220v.