Mig choices

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Hope I can get a little input on which mig to buy.Looking at Miller MM 212 and MM252, as well as Lincoln PM 216 and 256.I will be doing tractor restoration work on sheet metal as well as welding on some implements.The Miller and LIncoln seem to be about the same price.Which is the better welder?Would I need the higher amp machine or would the lower amp machine suffice?Which ones hace the best arc abd starts?Thanks for any help.                                                                                    Glenn
Reply:You can turn down the amps and volts on a large machine, but you can't get past the top end of a smaller one.  My money would go the the Hobart Ironman 230, which is a 250 amp machine..
Reply:Bigger is better. For a few bucks more you get a lot more. I wouldn't consider the 212. The Miller 211 will do what you want. Duty cycle is less but cheaper. My supplier hasn't sold a 212since the 211 came out.  If 211 seems small  go for the 252.
Reply:I'd jump right into the deep end and buy the MM252......why,cause I like bigger,better,faster.....everythingAnd I would never ever buy anything made by the Cleveland hore's
Reply:Thanks for the suggestions,guess the only choice now is red or blue.Looked at both today but have welded with neither.Miller has plastic front and cheap looking control knobs while Lincoln has metal front.I know this does not matter as for as arc performance but thats one thing that got my attention.Thanks for the responses..                                                                       Glenn
Reply:Maybe think about Yellow(ESAB),Gray(Hobart) or Burgundy(Thermal Arc) lesser known but good brands.
Reply:Originally Posted by 7A749That's right cope.Always best to grow into a machine than out of one.IMHO of course
Reply:Originally Posted by copeYou can turn down the amps and volts on a large machine, but you can't get past the top end of a smaller one.  My money would go the the Hobart Ironman 230, which is a 250 amp machine..
Reply:If you can afford it, by all means go for a 250 amp machine. I don't think you would go wrong with either Red or Blue, but also consider the Thermal Arc 252i. Just as much power but more portable. Also one of the few "multi-process" welders that is actually a decent stick welder, if that is any concern.JohnA few weldersA lot of hammersA whole lot of C-clamps