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MRion Profile
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Registered: 11-2003
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Which Welder?


I'd like to get a MIG welder - something that I can weld up to 3/16" and won't get veto'd by the CFO (that'd be wife)

Any suggestions?

11/3/2006, 1:31 pm Link to this post Send Email to MRion   Send PM to MRion Blog
 
MRion Profile
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Re: Which Welder?


I'll answer my own question now. :devil:

Hobart stickmate 235 from Theisen's (about $249) will weld pretty much anything you'd want jeep related.

You can make pretty welds with a stick, you just have to practice. (must practice with wire, too)

How did I come to this conclusion? I'm glad you asked that question.

Here's some free advice that will cover the cost of the above welder:

I recently signed up and took the Stick welding class out at Kirkwood. I can't stress enough what a bad idea that was. Ok the idea was good, the class was worthless.

The only instruction offered was in the form of a 45 minute DVD. Several other video's were shown the first day - safety, oxy/aceteleyne torch), then we just started welding beads.

I understand that the biggest part of beginning welding is practice, and expected that, however, there was no curriculum, guidance, etc. You get there in the morning, sign in, and start welding.

If you have a question, the instructor will answer, but other than that, you're on your own.

My suggestion to anyone wanting to learn to weld - buy a welder, instructional video, and practice. Find projects on the internet and make them. ( start small - don't have your first project be a bumper/tire carrier)

Welding class: 175
Rec. textbook: 75
Required equip: 150
           _____
           400

Do not skimp on the equpiment, however: I bought steel tow leather boots, safety glasses, etc. These items are necessary and cannot be omitted.

If you have any questions, feel free to e-mail.

Matt



3/10/2007, 7:32 am Link to this post Send Email to MRion   Send PM to MRion Blog
 
flexjay87 Profile
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Registered: 12-2003
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Re: Which Welder?


I'm assuming that's a 220 volt unit. conventional wisdom says to use only 220 v units, for welding anything thicker than 3/16 in. steel. anyhow, it's been almost 30 years since i took a welding class, and have probably forgot most of what i learned, so I'm no expert on current( no pun intended) welding units. i hear there are some decent 110 v units out there for those that don't have the extra space in the house power panel, but who knows, i tend to believe little of what i hear, and half of what i see. too bad the class you took was lousy, welding is a pretty handy skill. Scott
3/14/2007, 6:48 pm Link to this post Send Email to flexjay87   Send PM to flexjay87
 


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