LKS 180A welder

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Are these a decent welder for a newbie, nothing over 1/4"?  Similar to Lincoln 225 I guess.What's the minimum breaker size I need for light work?He wants $50 inc helmet, gloves and some sticksThanks Attached ImagesLast edited by martik777; 08-12-2015 at 10:16 PM.
Reply:As long as it works and the leads/plugs are in good shape, sounds like a fair deal. It may not have a fan, but if it does that would be a weak link, as is true of any old welder. I think many of those older tapped 180 Amp units could get by with a 40 Amp breaker. Interesting history about the LKS company:http://www.pembinatoday.ca/2009/07/1...-change-at-lksDon't know if this is all factual, but look at post #8 here about "limited input" welders that draw less than 40 Amps.  The LKS may fall into the same category.http://www.garagejournal.com/forum/s...d.php?t=232124For light work you micht get by with a 30A breaker (clothes dryer outlet).  Have the guy read the info on the nameplate.  Should have the input rating listed."USMCPOP" First-born son: KIA  Iraq 1/26/05Syncrowave 250 w/ Coolmate 3Dialarc 250, Idealarc 250SP-175 +Firepower TIG 160S (gave the TA 161 STL to the son)Lincwelder AC180C (1952)Victor & Smith O/A torchesMiller spot welder
Reply:I bet it does fall into that REA ruling. it's 37A primary, no fan.  It did come with about 30 ft of #6  extension and a 10-50 plug and the leads are in great shape.I'll probably wire a 40A with #8 wire, I guess #10 would be too small even for a welder with the 20% duty cycle?It included a  bunch of 6013 rods but not sure if they are too thick for a lower amperage.How is the rod diameter calculated? from the outside or just the metal core?Thanks for the info, I always enjoy reading the history of those old companies. Attached Images