Thermal Arc?

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How has the thermal arc line of welders held up?  I'm really contemplating buying one of the 252i machines.  My understanding is they are Chinese made.  I've been told by tons and tons of people to stay away from Chinese made welding machines.  I don't know if this is the exception to the rule.  Or if the info it is not Chinese made.  I'm a garage welder but I'm welding a lot!  I've been practicing and doing a lot of small projects.  I don't want something I'm gonna burn up real quick.  Thanks.
Reply:Hi Zapzoo,A WW link posted before about this machinehttp://weldingweb.com/vbb/showthread.php?t=63039Best RegardsMauricio
Reply:Believe it or not, China can make quality products.  We're just used to the cheap crap we've demanded from them for years.TA's that are made in China to their specs are great machines.  All of the ones I've owned were made in Japan.Last edited by Drf255; 10-23-2012 at 08:52 PM.TA Arcmaster 300CM3XMT 304S22P12 suitcase feederX-Treme 12VSOptima pulserTA161SMaxstar 150STLHypertherm PM45OP setupStihl 020AVP, 039, 066 Magnum
Reply:The 252i Fabricator is made in USA. The 180i and 211i are made in China.Made in China would not scare me away. These are quality machines.JasonLincoln Idealarc 250 stick/tigThermal Dynamics Cutmaster 52Miller Bobcat 250Torchmate CNC tableThermal Arc Hefty 2Ironworkers Local 720
Reply:The other issue with China made welders is customer service, and TA is good in that respect.I've owned the TA 85 stick/tig and enjoyed the crap out of it.  Pushed it harder than it was intended for and it never complained.  Right now I'm saving for the TA 160 STL.Lincoln SA 200Esab Caddy 160Thermal Arc 201TSMiller Dialarc HFI don't like making plans for the day because then the word "premeditated" gets thrown around the courtroom....
Reply:Well I think I'm gonna take the plunge and pull the trigger.  I was saving for a maxstar200 for the benefit of mobility.  However I think I'm going to put that on hold.  I think an engine driven welding machine such as a bluestar 185 or even a bobcat 225 in the future may suit my mobility needs better.  I may get the maxstar 150 instead of the 200 if I just have to have one.  Thanks for the info.
Reply:Originally Posted by dubl_tThe other issue with China made welders is customer service, and TA is good in that respect..
Reply:I have a TA 201TS, it has impressed me. If I had to do it over, I would do it again.
Reply:I've had a TA185 arcmaster ac/dc tig machine for 6 yrs... I also own a lincoln 180c, but the next mig welder I buy will be a thermal arc.tackleexperts.comwww.necessityjigs.comhttps://www.facebook.com/groups/mach...dingequipment/
Reply:I have the 252i and love it. The tig takes time to get used to, but the mig will lay down great beads. I could not be happier with mine. I got it last November and use it almost every day. You would not be disappointed.Offering CNC Plasma cutting and welding projects.Follow me on facebook https://www.facebook.com/nobigdeal.fabSupport those that support WW.