Best TIG Machine for $2,000.00 max!

admin

Hi guys!  I'm looking for a good TIG machine that can handle some light industrial work, AC/DC, scratchless smooth start, that can handle aluminum heads and other automotive and industrial repairs.Also, can all TIG machines be adapted to do Plasma Cutting with accessories like a compressor and the gun?I appreciate your opinions and expertise on this one!  These machines can be very expensive.
Reply:I would have to say the ThermalArc 185.  It is a very good machine.  Others will recommend a Miller EconoTig.  There is a thread from last week that goes into a debate about them.About the plasma thing, as far as I know you can't, but someone who knows for sure will probably chime in soon.
Reply:Thank you!  Could you please put up a link to the other thread also?
Reply:http://www.weldingweb.com/vbb/showthread...light=econotig
Reply:I wouldn't recommend an Econotig for welding on aluminum heads, need alot more power for that kind of work. A TA-185 wouldn't cut it either. You'd need at least a 250 amp machine, preferrably larger.Miller EconotigCutmaster 38Yes ma'am, that IS a screwdriver in my pocket!
Reply:Look on E-bay.....zap!I am not completely insane..Some parts are missing Professional Driver on a closed course....Do not attempt.Just because I'm a  dumbass don't mean that you can be too.So DON'T try any of this **** l do at home.
Reply:The EconoTIG is probably a bit too weak although it's probably great for around the home, but for about $400.00 more I was looking at the LINCOLN PRECISION TIG 225 WELDER READY PAK W/ CART . What do you guys think of this one?
Reply:Just make sure whatever you get is watercooled capable...Or you will need a radiator......zap!I am not completely insane..Some parts are missing Professional Driver on a closed course....Do not attempt.Just because I'm a  dumbass don't mean that you can be too.So DON'T try any of this **** l do at home.
Reply:Originally Posted by zapsterJust make sure whatever you get is watercooled capable...Or you will need a radiator......zap!
Reply:Not all the time.. There were guys at class that have run 200 amps aircooled..But they said the torches are huge and bulkey..I would not know about that myself though......zap!Last edited by zapster; 08-19-2007 at 08:53 PM.I am not completely insane..Some parts are missing Professional Driver on a closed course....Do not attempt.Just because I'm a  dumbass don't mean that you can be too.So DON'T try any of this **** l do at home.
Reply:Originally Posted by Triple-BeastAren't we getting into the big dollar machines when we talk water cooled?
Reply:How about this...Looks like a good deal.http://cgi.ebay.com/Miller-Syncrowav...QQcmdZViewItemMe!
Reply:No pedal??...zap!I am not completely insane..Some parts are missing Professional Driver on a closed course....Do not attempt.Just because I'm a  dumbass don't mean that you can be too.So DON'T try any of this **** l do at home.
Reply:Nope, it looks like it is on the torch.  Also I would make sure it works!!!Me!
Reply:Originally Posted by Me!How about this...Looks like a good deal.http://cgi.ebay.com/Miller-Syncrowav...QQcmdZViewItem
Reply:On ebay, you can OCCASIONALLY get an htp201 that's been used for a demo or three with full factory warranty.  Normally, they run a few hunderd above your price, but I just figured I toss that one out there.  Here is a link, and expect this one to get on up there, but there is no harm in bidding your upper limit until you decide to buy.http://cgi.ebay.com/HTP-Invertig-201...QQcmdZViewItemSmithboy...if it ain't broke, you ain't tryin'.
Reply:For cylinder head work (assuming some preheat) the Miller and Lincoln machines in the 250 amp range with water cooling are your best bet. Anything smaller and it won't cut the mustard.Miller Millermatic 252Miller Syncrowave 200Liincoln AC-DC 225Victor O-A Set