Question about Idealarc r3r-400 Welder

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Just got an Idealarc R3R-400 arc welder free from a buddy who is ill, I have been learning on a Hobart 4500 Champion and feel comfortable moving up a notch.  I am looking at converting the Lincoln to TIG.  My question is do I need the TIG Module or just the Hand Amptrol to convert it to TIG?  I know I will need gas also.  What all do I need in order to have a fully capable TIG welder.  Also would going from Arc to TIG be a good move or should I go from Arc to MIG then TIG.  Still a very new welder and will be working mostly with steel tubing.  Thanks in advanced for any replies.Chris
Reply:Guam_Guy, The R3R-400 is designed for heavy duty DC only stick welding. It is not a good choice for TIG welding due to the fact that the lowest amp setting is 60 amps and the machine is strictly DC according to the Lincoln website. So the downfall for converting to TIG is that you will not be able to weld with less than 60 amps. You will not be able to TIG weld aluminum as the machine has no AC current selection. The High Frequency module and foot pedal will set you back about $1500 so I would look for a dedicated TIG machine.Also you need a Constant Voltage power-sorce for almost all MIG processes. Your R3R-400 is a Constant Current machine, so you won’t be able to convert to MIG either.Manufacturers are now making some nice multiprocess welding macines set up with a wire feeder for MIG and have the capability for DC TIG. Lincoln makes the PowerMig 350MP which is a good example. Just remember if you want to TIG aluminum you will need an AC power source.Hope this helps.
Reply:Thanks for the reply.