Mid State Buzz Box

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Hello,I'm new to welding and I'm looking for something to practice with.  I bought a John Deere tractor that needs some work on the bucket and I hope to become proficient enough to replace some of the backhoe pivot points that have worn out.  I'm looking to buy an oxy/acetylene setup but I've been advised that a stick welder may better suit my needs.I've found a welder for sale that is near me and I'm wondering if anybody has any experience with this type.  If so, then what would be the max thickness of steel that I could weld with this and get good penetration?http://albany.craigslist.org/tls/2303478071.htmlThanks in advance.
Reply:Midstates made very decent AC welders. That one, 100amps, is too small for the type of work you are talking about.  I would not consider any welder under 140 amps. There are far too many welders in the 180-250 amp range that can be had if you look around a bit.  It may be worth buying to learn to weld sheet metal and light plate welding up to about 1/4" thick.  Also, you may only have 120volt power and $50 to spend.  But if you have 240 volts and some $, I'd opt out for a bigger unit.Century AC/DC 250 Amp & Midstates 300 Amp Industrial AC stick welders, Century Flux core 80 amp. wire feed welder  Harris Oxy-Acet. cutting & welding outfit:SEE MY INFORMATIVE VIDEOS AT http://www.youtube.com/user/alpho52
Reply:Thanks Alphonse.  I enjoyed the old GE video that you narrated.  I'll keep looking for a better set-up.