|
|
Hi - New guy here - I'm in Denver, CO. I have very little welding experience but I like to work with my hands and feel the need to create things from scratch.I'm trying to get started with some home-shop welding projects. I would like to make some rock sliders for my Land Cruiser: 2'' x 3'' .188 thick steel, some tubing, some 2''x2'' for arms and some gussets. Maybe a skid plate 1/4'' thick...I know it would be a breeze for most of ya here... but I'm just getting started and trying to pick the right piece of equipment for my needs. I don't think I need a $1500 TIG machine or el cheapo Chinese piece of junk. I'm trying to pick a tool that I can grow into a little over time without it being an overkill.I think I would be comfortable spending up to $500 for the right rig.I've seen some stuff on Craigslist locally that I thought looked pretty good - here are some examples:1) http://denver.craigslist.org/tls/2474263079.html2) http://denver.craigslist.org/tls/2463698963.html3) http://denver.craigslist.org/tls/2438572960.html4) http://denver.craigslist.org/tls/2468228612.htmlPlease let me know some recommendations or things to pay attention to when searching. Would prefer something local but if it's the right deal I may be up for it even with shipping.Thanks,James in Denver, CO
Reply:All but #2 look to be ok machines, the last two come with cylinders which adds to the value. #3 looks like a good deal, #4 looks a bit pricy without researching it a bit more. However none of those machines will weld over 1/8" material under real world conditions. They are good for sheetmetal and thats about it. To do thicker metal you need to be looking at a 220v mig rather than 110v ones. Your buget is a bit on the low side for that, but some show up from time to time on CL. A good 220v mig new will set you back about $800 or so to start roughly. The Hobarts are usually the least expensive new of the name brand units. You can usually pick up used 220v stick machines cheaper than migs, but stick takes a bit more work to learn, and usually isn't suited well for other automotive sheetmetal projects.Read the attached threads in the sticky on 110v migs to understand why the small migs won't do what you want to do. Forget what the manufacturers say the max thickness is, they over rate those small machines..No government ever voluntarily reduces itself in size. Government programs, once launched, never disappear. Actually, a government bureau is the nearest thing to eternal life we'll ever see on this earth! Ronald Reagan
Reply:110 Volt Mig information for Carbide.http://weldingweb.com/vbb/showthread.php?t=20883I offer three choices: Good, Fast, & Cheap. You may pick two.Hobart AC/DC StikMate LXHarbor Freight AD HoodHarbor Freight Industrial Chop SawDeVilbis 20 Gallon, 5 HP Compressor
Reply:Originally Posted by CarbideI'm trying to get started with some home-shop welding projects. I would like to make some rock sliders for my Land Cruiser: 2'' x 3'' .188 thick steel, some tubing, some 2''x2'' for arms and some gussets. Maybe a skid plate 1/4'' thick...Thanks,James in Denver, CO
Reply:There is a couple of IronMan machines for sale locally - here is one, though it's more than I wanted to spend:http://fortcollins.craigslist.org/tls/2472595492.htmlThis one is a higher model. He isn't specific on the asking price. What should I offer him for this machine AS-IS:http://denver.craigslist.org/tls/2454385671.htmlJames
Reply:The 1st one seems a bit high but fair. That machine new probably ran about the price he is asking so you are getting the cylinder for free. I don't see a size so it's hard to say. If he'd go $700 it's probably well worth it.The second machine is a pretty heavy duty one. If he'd take $1000 it's a steal with the cylinder ( looks to be at least an 80 cf if not larger) This is a machine you would probably never out grow.Looking at Northern Tools site, you can get a HH187 for about $675 new plus a cylinder. The next level machine up from that would put you in the $850+ range plus a cylinder new, and for about $1100 plus the cylinder you can get a nice 200 amp class Miller like the MM211 just to give you a comparision price range. The Handler machines are Hobarts "ecconomy" line. The "ironman" units are heavier duty machines..No government ever voluntarily reduces itself in size. Government programs, once launched, never disappear. Actually, a government bureau is the nearest thing to eternal life we'll ever see on this earth! Ronald Reagan
Reply:If you have a Tractor Supply close by, they have the Hobart 187 on sale for $549. Hard to beat that price.
Reply:yea i dont think one would go wrong getting the hh187 for $549 from tractor supply...thats cheap enough for sure..plus it would be new with a warranty. heres a link http://www.tractorsupply.com/welding...welder-3807126tackleexperts.comwww.necessityjigs.comhttps://www.facebook.com/groups/mach...dingequipment/
Reply:Id say the new Hobart is your best bet, those other machines are all too small, dont even bother with a 110v machine, they just aren't big enough to do anything with.72 Chevy Cummins Project94 3500HD Welding Rig build Sold NOV 2011
Reply:you definitely want to go with a 175 or larger machine. The important thing to look at is the Duty cycle. most of the sub 200 machines are in the range of 20-30% at full load. this will have you wishing you bought a larger machine quick when u weld for 2 minutes and gotta wait for 8 minutes for the machine to cool down so you can weld another 2 minutes.....I will be selling my Migmaster 250 here soon. Also selling Millermatic 250 Vintage but that is in Los Angeles right now. I would take $1000 for either with a gauge and full bottle of 75/25 gas to a fellow WeldingWeb member. you can view the manual for it Here on ESAB's site Mine is the L-Tec brand which esab bought and if you look at page 50 and 52 you will see the color parts pics are Ltec not an ESAB colors... its a 280 amp machine with a 50% duty cycle at 250A! (I am trying to reduce the number of welders I own )you can also get a good 200A range machine for about $1500 new....Last edited by soutthpaw; 07-05-2011 at 01:46 AM.Tiger Sales: AHP Distributor www.tigersalesco.comAHP200x; AHP 160ST; MM350P, Spoolmatic 30A; Everlast PowerTig 185; Thermal Dynamics 60i plasma. For Sale: Cobra Mig 250 w/ Push-pull gun. Lincoln Wirematic 250
Reply:Originally Posted by soutthpawyou definitely want to go with a 175 or larger machine. The important thing to look at is the Duty cycle. most of the sub 200 machines are in the range of 20-30% at full load. this will have you wishing you bought a larger machine quick when u weld for 2 minutes and gotta wait for 8 minutes for the machine to cool down so you can weld another 2 minutes.......
Reply:Great info fellas - thank you
Reply:mig and fluxcores biggest advantage is high depositionrates.. why does a home / hobby welder need that? get a used stick machine for less than $150..it will last forever, do what you need and more
Reply:Stick requires more skill, doesn't look as pretty, and doesn't work as well on sheetmetal.If you were wanting something structural, I'd say go with the stick machine.For automotive work where nothing will be very thick, and appearance is very important, the mig machine is a good choice.I'd recommend you *also* buy a used transformer stick machine. These can be found reasonably priced, and they usually hold their value so you can upgrade later and not lose a lot of money. The AC only ones are cheap starting around $100, but I'd recommend you get a DC one.Dynasty200DX w/coolmate1MM210MM VintageESAB miniarc161ltsLincoln AC225Victor O/A, Smith AW1ACutmaster 81IR 2475N7.5FPRage3Jancy USA1019" SBAEAD-200LE
Reply:Originally Posted by AndyAI'd recommend you *also* buy a used transformer stick machine...
Reply:DC will have either 4 plug connections for your leads or will have a second knob with 3 positions ac, dc+ and DC-Have u decided what u really want yet? mig, stick, both? and what is your $$ budget. I'm in Colorado Springs area and can let u know if I see anything down this way.... but need to know what it is you actually are looking for. also do you have a 50 amp 230 VAC power supply available? you will need it for a 225 amp class transformer stick welderLast edited by soutthpaw; 07-05-2011 at 04:23 PM.Tiger Sales: AHP Distributor www.tigersalesco.comAHP200x; AHP 160ST; MM350P, Spoolmatic 30A; Everlast PowerTig 185; Thermal Dynamics 60i plasma. For Sale: Cobra Mig 250 w/ Push-pull gun. Lincoln Wirematic 250
Reply:Originally Posted by soutthpawDC will have either 4 plug connections for your leads or will have a second knob with 3 positions ac, dc+ and DC-Have u decided what u really want yet? mig, stick, both? and what is your $$ budget. I'm in Colorado Springs area and can let u know if I see anything down this way.... but need to know what it is you actually are looking for. also do you have a 50 amp 230 VAC power supply available? you will need it for a 225 amp class transformer stick welder
Reply:You will be VERY happy with the stick. If you run into thin stuff, get an OA rig - you need it anyway for cutting and bending.Hobart LX235Victor 250 Oxy-Acetylene Rig (welding and cutting)Bobcat 773F-350, 1999, 4x4, 16' 10K# trailerOutdoor Wood Burner - 10 cords/year
Reply:Originally Posted by gwiley...get an OA rig - you need it anyway for cutting and bending.
Reply:If you decide to go Mig, I can tell you from a newbie weldor standpoint that, the difference between a 220v machine and a 110v machine is night and day. I struggled with trying to run good beads with 110v. Jumped to a 220v and it was as if magic happened over night.I am not saying I was a professional weldor over night, but the welds on my rock sliders have held for three years now and I can lift the entire vehicle up using nothing but the rack legs under the sliders.Also, using gas instead of flux core is a huge difference too. Gas allows you to see your weld puddle and for us newbies, this is important.I cut and welded these sliders on my Jeep all myself. Was the first real "big" project I have ever done all by myself.Last edited by MWalden; 07-05-2011 at 07:50 PM.
Reply:The "tombstone" AC-225 is what I started on. Cheap and almost indestructable.These can be bought new for under $300 so the one for $200 is high. Around $100 is probably a fair price for one that's clean and not beat up.Check that it welds in all switch positions. That's about it!A DC machine would be nicer, but it'll probably be 3 or 4 times the cost.Dynasty200DX w/coolmate1MM210MM VintageESAB miniarc161ltsLincoln AC225Victor O/A, Smith AW1ACutmaster 81IR 2475N7.5FPRage3Jancy USA1019" SBAEAD-200LE
Reply:Originally Posted by MWaldenI cut and welded these sliders on my Jeep all myself. Was the first real "big" project I have ever done all by myself.
Reply:Originally Posted by AndyAFor automotive work where nothing will be very thick, and appearance is very important, the mig machine is a good choice.
Reply:Originally Posted by CarbideNice work friend - yeah, that's exactly what I'm looking to do for my LandCruiser. Looking good.
Reply:here is one, i may go look at it tmw.http://denver.craigslist.org/tls/2478767398.htmlIf you want mig too, a nice suitcase wire feeder would compliment this well down the line. they will run off Constant Current (stick power sources) if you want to try out a couple different setups, just give me a shout and come down to my place for an afternoonLast edited by soutthpaw; 07-05-2011 at 11:16 PM.Tiger Sales: AHP Distributor www.tigersalesco.comAHP200x; AHP 160ST; MM350P, Spoolmatic 30A; Everlast PowerTig 185; Thermal Dynamics 60i plasma. For Sale: Cobra Mig 250 w/ Push-pull gun. Lincoln Wirematic 250Originally Posted by soutthpawhere is one, i may go look at it tmw.http://denver.craigslist.org/tls/2478767398.html
Reply:Originally Posted by joedirt1966Something sounds a bit fishy about that.....But......You never know.
Reply:Better take a 220 plug with you. If you look closely, the welder in the ad doesn't have one.
Reply:always do. I did on the millermatic. actually tapped right into the guy's breaker panel with a plug to test it before buying it.Tiger Sales: AHP Distributor www.tigersalesco.comAHP200x; AHP 160ST; MM350P, Spoolmatic 30A; Everlast PowerTig 185; Thermal Dynamics 60i plasma. For Sale: Cobra Mig 250 w/ Push-pull gun. Lincoln Wirematic 250
Reply:Here is one near me:http://denver.craigslist.org/tls/2464716110.htmlIt's AC/DC Stickmate from Hobart... it's right by me - I'd like to go look at it today if he still has it. Good one?
Reply:Originally Posted by soutthpawif you want to try out a couple different setups, just give me a shout and come down to my place for an afternoon
Reply:Originally Posted by MWaldenIt may look as if I tack welded to the body pinch seam but I assure you I did not. The body pinch seam is sandwiched between two 5' by 1" wide metal strips with around ten bolts, maybe twelve, holding the two together along the length. I welded to the two strips and the support runners go under to the frame rail and are welded to the frame with large metal plates spanning over 6" wide each.Basically a copy of AJ's Rock Rails.
Reply:Originally Posted by CarbideHere is one near me:http://denver.craigslist.org/tls/2464716110.htmlIt's AC/DC Stickmate from Hobart... it's right by me - I'd like to go look at it today if he still has it. Good one?
Reply:Originally Posted by CarbideHere is one near me:http://denver.craigslist.org/tls/2464716110.htmlIt's AC/DC Stickmate from Hobart... it's right by me - I'd like to go look at it today if he still has it. Good one?
Reply:Originally Posted by soutthpawyeah that is a great machine though I would try and get him down 50-100 on the price as he said OBO in the adif no leads and groud/ stinger I would not offer more than 150 as a set of 25 ft 1 gauge cable and a ground and stinger are going to cost you about $150
Reply:Originally Posted by rankrank1That model welder is a good one. Infinitely adjustable amperage control, and DC capability too which is desirable. Actually that welder is the same as the Miller Thunderbolt. The leads appear to be there and ad states extra 30' power cord which is probably worth $60-$90 depending on the gauge of the power cord. Picture does show some battle scars, but maybe it is just dirt????Anyway hard to beat a buzzbox welder like that Hobart (Lincoln AC-225/DC125 or a Miller Thunderbolt) for a backyard shop. Even a $150 dollar AC only used one is quite useful. Of course, adding DC capability is even more useful but adding DC doubles to triples the cost over AC only.For a newbie getting started a buzzbox welder such as these will actually do more than weld alone making it the ultimate tool of versatility in a primitive shop. a) Obviously it can weld metal (as thin as 1/16" thick with experience and practice) (1/8" and thicker is rather easy)b) You can cut metal with it. Simply stick some 6011 in the stinger and crank up the amps and you can cut plate or burn holes in plate decently. Cuts are not plasma quality but useable in a backyard shop. Proper technique is even covered in most buzzbox manuals as you kinda move the rod in a sawing motion as you plunge.c) Add a Twin Carbon arc torch to the welder (can be home made for nearly free or factory ones can be purchased on used market) and you have an inexpensive way to heat metal for bending, brazing, silver soldering, flame fill welding etc that operates for nearly the mere cost of electricity - or in other words nearly free. Twin Carbon arc can burn up to 1000 degrees hotter than oxy/acetylene can so it is powerful for heating, but Twin Carbon arc will NOT cut metal. TCA also be used flameless style to free small nuts in sensitive paint areas that flame might damage the paint. Simply touch the 2 rods to the nut and flip the welder on and the nut will heat up through convection. (Note1: Twin Carbon arc will NOT work on an inverter based welder, but will not hurt one of these older transformer based machines and works best on AC). (Note2: TCA is powerful so you must wear your welding helmet and cover all exposed skin which I do when welding anyway). good luck and happy shopping
Reply:Originally Posted by CarbideThanks South - by 'stinger' I'm assuming you mean the handle that holds the rod... sorry - don't have these terms down yet...
Reply:There is some good comments on here but for me I would just be patient and wait for the right 220 mig to go up for sale. 2 years ago I got my first mig. Looked for about 3 months and a mint millermatic 185 came up for $450. Went to see it and the guy gave me a full bottle 3 spools of wire a cheap auto dark helmet and some gloves. I have a Lincoln tombstone, millermatic 185, and a dynasty 200 now. I have not used my Lincoln in a longtime. I will probably never sell it but I would rather use the other machines since the processes are cleaner and easier to use imo.No matter what you decide just dont feel you have to be in a rush look for the right deal.------------------------------------------Millermatic 185Miller Dynasty 200dxHypertherm powermax 30
Reply:Today I bought a like-new Lincoln 225A AC/DC stick welder from a retired auto-mechanice (really nice guy). The leads, ground and stinger are all like new. It has the factory 3-prong plug at the end. Has both Pos and Neg DC setting. The PO threw in a decent mask, portable ground connector and two boxes of electrodes all for $225, so I bought it. He also had almost brand new Makita chop saw (14inch blade) which I picked up for $50 with three spare blades! I was happy... hopefully it will serve me well. I feel like I'm off to a good start. Also found a guy nearby who is a retired fabricator who's willing to teach me about calipers, layouts, cutting, and welding (MIG and Oxy/Acet.) - so I'm pretty stoked... Feel like it's coming together for me all of the sudden.. Help me understand these electrodes that I got, plz:1) Box1: Century E6011 1/8dia - 14 inches I think (50 to 130A)2) Box2: WA Allow E6013 5/32dia - 14 inches; heat number 903217Can I use these for my work on the steel sliders - 3/16th steel tube and 2''x2'' rails; 1/4'' plate brackets?
Reply:the 6011 is your deep penetration all purpose rod and would be the go to for your1/4 inch plate. remember that the machine only does 125 amps bax in DC 6013 is shallow penetrating rod byt 5/32 is pretty thick get some 3/32 6013 and some 1/16 6013 ( harbor freight carries it) for doing think wall tube. sounds like you are off to a good start.Tiger Sales: AHP Distributor www.tigersalesco.comAHP200x; AHP 160ST; MM350P, Spoolmatic 30A; Everlast PowerTig 185; Thermal Dynamics 60i plasma. For Sale: Cobra Mig 250 w/ Push-pull gun. Lincoln Wirematic 250
Reply:I need to see if I can find an on-line manual for this rig... that's one thing it didn't come with...
Reply:Lincoln should have one on their web site you can download. Not too much to learn in the manual, it's a pretty basic machine. You'll find 6013 1nd 7014 probably the easiest to begin learning with. I'd grab a box of 3/32" and 1/8" 7014 and start running beads. You'll find the suggested amps for the rod sizes on the package. I'd pick a setting that roughly mid point on the suggested scale and start there. Both 6013/7014 are "drag" rods. All you really have to do is keep the edge of the flux on the steel as it burns down. The biggest issue new guys usually have is they go too fast. You'll probably use up a whole rod welding 6-8" roughly. If you don't, you probably moved too fast. If you run a shorter bead, you moved too slow. 7014 will tell you when you've got the amps and speed just right. The slag will just peel up on it's own or simply flake off in big chunks. As soon as you see this the first time It will make complete sense.Good luck and have fun..No government ever voluntarily reduces itself in size. Government programs, once launched, never disappear. Actually, a government bureau is the nearest thing to eternal life we'll ever see on this earth! Ronald Reagan
Reply:Today this machine popped up on CL: http://denver.craigslist.org/tls/2536984370.htmlIs the Lincoln 175HD machine (220V) a good starter MIG?! Already got a stick welder (Lincoln 125/225 AC/DC machine I'm learning on). The price is close to my range with all the trimmings...
Reply:Today I found this SnapOn welder locally:http://denver.craigslist.org/tls/2539643809.htmlDoes anybody have any experience with this welder. I found a similar one on eBay for $800! Hope I'm not making a mistake here. It looks like a good 230V mig - please confirm asap.
Reply:Dude, for that price, Id jump on it!! Ive never ran a snap on welder, but the prices on those things are insane!! I figure you could double your money even if it doesnt work, atleast around here. Good luck [Account Abandoned 8/8/16 Please Do Not Attempt Contact Or Expect A Reply]. See you on YouTube! -ChuckE2009
Reply:looks like its only a 130 or 140 amp machine. not sure if 110 or 220. if its cheap at a pawn shop you can bet its got problems...Tiger Sales: AHP Distributor www.tigersalesco.comAHP200x; AHP 160ST; MM350P, Spoolmatic 30A; Everlast PowerTig 185; Thermal Dynamics 60i plasma. For Sale: Cobra Mig 250 w/ Push-pull gun. Lincoln Wirematic 250
Reply:Originally Posted by LanseDude, for that price, Id jump on it!!
Reply:NOOOOOOOOOO!!!Hey, what ever happened to that nice little stickmate? I bought one last spring, and used the crap out of it, and its still no worse for the ware. I cant really say enough good things about it [Account Abandoned 8/8/16 Please Do Not Attempt Contact Or Expect A Reply]. See you on YouTube! -ChuckE2009
Reply:Originally Posted by soutthpawlooks like its only a 130 or 140 amp machine. not sure if 110 or 220. if its cheap at a pawn shop you can bet its got problems...
Reply:Originally Posted by Lansewhat ever happened to that nice little stickmate? I bought one last spring, and used the crap out of it, and its still no worse for the ware. I cant really say enough good things about it |
|
发表于 2021-8-31 23:24:30