Old TIG diagnostics

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Hi Guys.. I'm in the market for a new to me TIG for the home shop.   I had a Syncro 180 SD that served me well for a few years, but needed a little more power once in a while.  Fast forward to today and I'm looking for a 250 machine.   Due to circumstances beyond my control, I'm not able to buy a new Dynasty.  So I'm back to the used market and looking at Syncro 250s and most are from the 90s.  I can weld.  I know what it should look, smell, and sound like, but is there a reasonable way to diagnose a machine for proper function that I'm not familiar with?  Are there any wear items beyond cleaning and gapping?TIA.Seth
Reply:If you have the chance for a test drive, I'd check these things. Make sure the gas solenoid works. Make sure the high freq. start works on steel. Check the balance control on aluminum, set to max clean and max penetration and check results.Ian TannerKawasaki KX450 and many other fine tools
Reply:Originally Posted by fortyonethirtyIf you have the chance for a test drive, I'd check these things. Make sure the gas solenoid works. Make sure the high freq. start works on steel. Check the balance control on aluminum, set to max clean and max penetration and check results.
Reply:If you don't have to have AC, check out the beast jontheturboguy is selling. It can do MIG, TIG and stick.
Reply:Thanks guys.  I need AC more than anything else, so my primary concern is the continuous hi freq.  The Gas solenoid is a great call also. I appreciate the counsel.