Idealarc 250/250 , Problem

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I bought the machine new in 1987, Used periodically over the years with no problems. Now it won't weld hot enough for a 3/32 rod even on highest setting on SM process. Any suggestions. Thanks,
Reply:Sounds more like dropped phase on your breaker, bad cables or a process swith not set right.
Reply:I have a similar vintage Idealarc TIG 250 which was purchased new and has worked perfectly. However, recently it developed a similar "no power" problem. Did you ever get this problem resolved? If so, what was the solution?
Reply:I'm a Lincoln Service tech, What exactly is the problem? I need to know what settings you have, what process are you in and what power you have?
Reply:Cruizer,I would really appreciate a Lincoln service tech's input on the problem. However, I don't want to hijack someone else's thread, so it might be easier if we keep this discussion going in my original thread called "TIG 250/250 trouble shooting" originally posted yesterday by chuckcobra. In that post and a followup I gave a short summary of the problem. (I'm not trying to complicate your life, just trying to be respectful of the originator of this post.)Chuck
Reply:Sorry guys for not responding.  I got involved in another project and not had time to check things further. Here is the situation as she stands. The machine is connected to 240 volt single phase power. I have checked the power at the 100 amp source and on the machine. Both legs show adequate power. I opened the chassis covers of the mach. and everything looks as new. I checked with a clamp on amp meter and both legs. With mach. on one leg is 5 1/4 amps. the other leg is 5 3/4 amps. in the stick mode with no are struck. After achieving arc stabilaziton it is pulling only 30 amps per leg. This while laying a marginal bead with machine at the highest setting. 3/32 rod.Following are the process settings while testing.Polarity DC +, Current range at max 85/250, Current selector on 10 (highest), Current control switch at tig 250, Spark off, Mode switch to Stick welding, Thanks guys for responding. I will appreciate any help.Machine code is 8809-R
Reply:FYI , I have the original operating manual that came with the machine new.
Reply:I'd say either you have a failed remote/local switch or your current sensing resistor isn't sensing any current, ie, blown open
Reply:Thanks, I'll try to check those tonight and get back.
Reply:It was the remote switch. Got it working today. You were right on. I really appreciate your help. Also I would like to say thanks for a great site. I am an old retired metal worker/welder so I will visit this site as much as possible and look for new ideas and also share what little I know if I see it can help. Thanks Again