Another basic thread I didn't see covered elsewhere

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Thanks again for any help.  Trying to understand what to look for when buying a used stick welder.  Not so much amperage/power issues, that's covered pretty well here, but as someone who's never welded before, I can't "test" it out, so is there any way I can be sure it works?Also, what typically breaks on a stick welder?  Are they easy to diagnose?  Are parts available?  Repairs easily made (swap parts)?  Cost prohibitive?
Reply:If there are links to good sources of info, please share.
Reply:The person who is selling it should be able to demonstrate that it works.   If they claim that it was theirs, but can't demo it, then walk away.Check some of the "what did you weld today" posts to get an idea of what a bead should look like.Dan----------------------------Measure twice.  Weld once.  Grind to size.MIG:  Lincoln SP100 TIG/STICK:  AHP Alphatig 200X
Reply:Get the seller to run a bead with 1/8" rod at something like 100 amps.  The stuff that breaks most is the stuff that makes the metal melt   I think it is fair to say that it will eaither melt the steel or it won't.Hobart LX235Victor 250 Oxy-Acetylene Rig (welding and cutting)Bobcat 773F-350, 1999, 4x4, 16' 10K# trailerOutdoor Wood Burner - 10 cords/year
Reply:Thanks guys.  I haven't measured the angle iron on my trailer, but I'm guessing it's maybe 1/4" or 3/8"?  Can I weld that with a 110v 140 stick welder, or do I need more juice?  I see some at a very reputable auction but they make no promises whether it works or not.  Just wondered what it costs to fix one, or if that's even possible.Last edited by Weldorado; 03-22-2015 at 11:04 PM.Reason: add
Reply:Originally Posted by WeldoradoThanks guys.  I haven't measured the angle iron on my trailer, but I'm guessing it's maybe 1/4" or 3/8"?  Can I weld that with a 110v 140 stick welder, or do I need more juice?  I see some at a very reputable auction but they make no promises whether it works or not.  Just wondered what it costs to fix one, or if that's even possible.
Reply:If you have 220 power, go with a 220 welder. A machine with DC output current will makes things 100 times easier for you learn instead of frustrating you to no end like most AC only machines will. You can buy some new inverter welders like Everlast pretty reasonable that have good welding qualities for most rods. If you find a machine you're thinking of, post about it on here and we can help you decide if it's worth buying based on the model, price, extra's, etc.
Reply:Thanks!!  Here's two I found.  The Hobart is real old and should go for less than $100.  The Miller 251d is a 1999 with 7500 hours.  Not sure, but it might go for a few hundred.  If I buy a more expensive machine, I'd prolly just sell it as soon as I finish my project.  Try to buy reasonable and not take a loss.  If I find a small, low-cost machine, I might keep it with the low volume I'll use it, it'd last awhile.
Reply:The old motor driven Hobart might be interesting. A lot of old machines like that have a nice arc to them. Most of the old Lincolns I've seen like that were all 3 phase though..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:I wouldn't touch that engine drive with 7,500-hours on it. Now the electric welder, sure. Here is a 1937 Lincoln Idealarc 300 I bought. See what it can do. Attached ImagesDon’t pay any attention to meI’m just a hobbyist!CarlDynasty 300V350-Pro w/pulseSG Spool gun1937 IdealArc-300PowerArc 200ST3 SA-200sVantage 400
Reply:That old Hobart is probably 3 phase."USMCPOP" First-born son: KIA  Iraq 1/26/05Syncrowave 250 w/ Coolmate 3Dialarc 250, Idealarc 250SP-175 +Firepower TIG 160S (gave the TA 161 STL to the son)Lincwelder AC180C (1952)Victor & Smith O/A torchesMiller spot welder
Reply:Originally Posted by OldendumThat old Hobart is probably 3 phase.
Reply:You should update your info showing where you live as maybe there is someone nearby who will let you test drive their welders so you can get a feel for it.
Reply:Originally Posted by drujininYou should update your info showing where you live as maybe there is someone nearby who will let you test drive their welders so you can get a feel for it.
Reply:Lowes has the Lincoln 225s on sale for 279.00.A new welder with a warranty might be the best choice.My Lincoln 225 was bought new in 1965.All Ive ever done is oil the fan bearings and store it in a clean place.The are Lincoln 225 welders for sale for 100 to 200 bucks.
Reply:I know a man who does all the welding for a family excavating business. He has two engine welders including a Bobcat, but uses a Lincoln Tombstone buzzbox.It wouldn't be my choice, he needs a great deal of skill to make do with this simple AC only machine, but he makes it work.An optimist is usually wrong, and when the unexpected happens is unprepared. A pessimist is usually right, when wrong, is delighted, and well prepared.
Reply:Rules: If you can't crank it and make it turn, walk away....If you can't plug it in and make it arc, walk away....If she looks good, but picks the hair out of her teeth, walk away.All the above can be found cheap on craigslist and ebay just like dogs on side of road or in shelters....There is a reason stray dogs and welders and women are STRAYS, and you don't want to tote either home even if offered free.Last edited by wornoutoldwelder; 03-25-2015 at 11:10 PM.
Reply:Hmmmm.... if it's my hair she's pickin out of her teeth....250 amp Miller DialArc AC/DC StickF-225 amp Forney AC Stick230 amp Sears AC StickLincoln 180C MIGVictor Medalist 350 O/ACut 50 PlasmaLes
Reply:All motor generators are 3 phase ,a tombstone ac/dc is the best stick welder made for a small shop ,you can weld a battleship with it or tig a soda can. 50 amp imput can do it all.
Reply:Originally Posted by PavinsteelmanAll motor generators are 3 phase ,a tombstone ac/dc is the best stick welder made for a small shop ,you can weld a battleship with it or tig a soda can. 50 amp imput can do it all.