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Used MIG welder gotchas?

867 views 10 replies 8 participants last post by  Tweak 
#1 ·
I'm itching to get started with some serious custom fab work. I know I want to be able to weld up to 1/4" so I'm aware of amperage characteristics.

I've been keeping an eye out on Craigslist for a good used welder, but I'm not sure of the things I should watch out for.

Is it even a good idea to try and get a used welder?
 
#2 ·
Get a 220v if you want to weld 1/4" steel. 110v migs usually max out at 3/16th.
 
#3 ·
This. Other benefit is the improved duty cycle. Will likely be at 10% for a 110v to weld 3/16th. You'll likely have to install a new outlet anyways, so you may as well install a 220.
 
#4 ·
There were very few used welders in my area, and the ones that were for sale were very expensive. So I bought a new one.

+1 for the 220V.

I bought the Hobart 210MVP, which will run on either 220 or 110 (it's more limited on thickness at 110, of course). I haven't used it at 110 yet, but it is a nice feature.
 
#10 ·
When I did it for a living, Miller was tops for MIG. When I bought my home MIG about 15 years ago I naturally went with a Miller. Got a good deal too at a trade show. I haven't checked lately but they were both basically the same machines, (same company owns both), but the Hobarts had a little cheaper components, plastic drive wheels and such. So the Millers are marketed towards the production shops while the Hobarts are marketed more towards the home do it yourselfers.
If you're not opening up a shop, either one would probably serve you well.

Bob
 
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