newbie with set-up ???

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I just "inherited" a Millermatic 175 and need info on power supply. I have a 50 amp breaker and outlet installed in anticipation of getting a welder, and the Miller website info says 30A is all that is needed.  I plan on using an extension cord, possibly up to 50ft, if OK, so I need to know if 50A breaker is too much potential juice, what length of extension cord is OK, and what gage wire to match length and power demand.  I am a beginning beginner and will use the MIG for screwing around and trying to impress the neighbors, or just light use.  Thanks, JCB.
Reply:Originally Posted by John BushI just "inherited" a Millermatic 175 and need info on power supply. I have a 50 amp breaker and outlet installed in anticipation of getting a welder, and the Miller website info says 30A is all that is needed.  I plan on using an extension cord, possibly up to 50ft, if OK, so I need to know if 50A breaker is too much potential juice, what length of extension cord is OK, and what gage wire to match length and power demand.  I am a beginning beginner and will use the MIG for screwing around and trying to impress the neighbors, or just light use.  Thanks, JCB.
Reply:Thanks Rojo, Any suggestion for setting up the 175? Again, I have taken a general course at a good Vo Tech, but have no other experience at all.  The unit came with  .024(??) wire and tip. Should I have more size inventory on hand,as well as any special equipment needs for alum. welding? I don't have any of the manuals and tend to order stuff I may not need when I get on the internet.  Thanks, JCB
Reply:I find for most smaller welding projects(up to 1/4" thick) the .023/024 wire is great. It makes for good penetration, and a smaller weld bead. If you need a little more, weld in a cup pattern or swirl. For over 1/4", I like the .030 wire for the 175. I have some .035, and I don't like the welders' characteristics with it. Heavy spatter. I don't like that much. Aluminum wire, I would stick with 5356, in.035 and most likely a spoolgun. The 4043 wire is so soft, it will kink instantly in that gun. You will need a teflon liner for the hose, pure argon, or argon98/ helium2 gas. It's pretty much a plug& play welder, and I am very happy with it. My friend has a spoolgun for his, and we do some decent aluminum work on that. For steel, I find my heat in the 30-60 range, and my speed near the same. For really thick stuff, I turn up the heat to 80 or so, and the speed I almost never touch once I get it right.
Reply:argon98/ helium2 gas. (quote)  dont you mean 98-2...Argon + C0-2?...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 zapsterargon98/ helium2 gas. (quote)  dont you mean 98-2...Argon + C0-2?...zap!