Mig Welder...

[dpeters81westy]

I've never used a Mig Welder in my life, and I've decided that THIS is the year that I'll learn. ( having a rusty bus to learn on can't be a bad thing either )

But, the reason for my Post here...

I don't know squat about welders... how much voltage / duty cycle - options etc...

If I were to spend between $400 and $800.00...

What kind of welder would you suggest?

I plan to use it to weld on my bus... so it's not Big Gauge metal. I also only have a household plug-in. So, nothing that reqires a 220amp outlet.

Ideas and suggestions are welcome...
p.s. I also realize that a Lincoln welder is better than a Princess Auto special. ;-)

Thanks

- DP

[karmann57]

I'm no expert but here's what I would suggest.

Get it set up for gas, makes the experience that much nicer.

As with anything else I would go with a good name, I know Keith picked up a Lincoln for a pretty good price at Canadian Tire a short time ago.

If you haven't seen it already you might find some good info here - www.thesamba.com/vw/forum/viewtopic.php?t=157122

[dpeters81westy]

Thanks Shane...that's a great thread. I read two pages before I remembered that I hadn't thanked you for it yet.

Thanks again...

- DP

[peivw]

I bought a Lincoln 220v from Canadian Tire as well last summer and am pretty happy with it. I talked with one of the guys that worked there and he told me they go on sale every 5 to 6 weeks. I waited and saved 150 bucks on mine by waiting an extra two weeks.

[bullyboy]

You've seen mine, hobart 110v with a tank. There is no comparison between a gas weld and the spatter mess of the flux core.
www.weldguru.com/hobart-125.html

[riffraff]

The little Lincoln I got is plenty adequate for my needs.
It's 140 amp, which is max I think for 110V welders. 140 amp seems to be a popular amperage for these little fellas.
I "bought" a tank of argon/CO2 mix from Air Liquide, so I'm into this whole set up for about $800 I think.
I imagine the Miller, Lincoln and other little MIGs are all made in the same factory in China, so I don't know as brand name matters all that much.
As others have mentioned though, go with gas.

[dpeters81westy]

Thanks guys...all the information is helpful.

I won't be buying until spring time... and I'll take the recommendation for Gas.

- Doug