12vs setup

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just got a miller 12vs suitcase to use with a Bobcat 250. i am using a flux core wire. after a short period of welding i lose all heat from my welder. i thought it might be the suitcase so i switched back to stick but still no heat. i'm using 1/16 wire.  my macine settings are set to wire - polarity, 17-22v wire on coarse setting, and am setting my fine control to 18 volts while machine is at idle. wire speed is at 90 on the suitcase. tried to set voltage while machine is at run speed but can't get it below 20v. machine will return to good stick welding after about a two hour cooldown. any help is greatly appreciated
Reply:First, a little clarification.  The voltage readings you're seeing are Open Circuit Voltage (OCV) and not the voltage that would be seen while welding which would be the 17-22V referenced on the panel selector from minimum to maximum Voltage/Amperage control.As for the weld output heat going away, from the controls side I would check the condition of the Voltage/Amperage control rheostat to make sure the windings are clean and the wiper is making good contact with them.  Also check for any poor connections withing the control circuit at all wire connectors which should show up as a discolored terminal.On the weld output side I would start with checking the Coarse Range selector contacts and for any loose connections that would overheat while welding resulting in added resistance that would show up as low weld output.Oh yeah, welcome to the forum. MM200 w/Spoolmatic 1Syncrowave 180SDBobcat 225G Plus - LP/NGMUTT Suitcase WirefeederWC-1S/Spoolmatic 1HF-251D-1PakMaster 100XL '68 Red Face Code #6633 projectStar Jet 21-110Save Second Base!
Reply:Thanks for clarifying what ocv is, Duane. I will check the areas you suggested. Appreciate the help
Reply:this sounds like one i commented on in miller forums. make absolutely your connections are clean including your ground clamp on both sides. the suitcase will not weld worth a snot unless this is done. if your using 1/16 211 fc voltage should be about 22-24 volts. i use 22 volts for .045 212. the slag should have tan or brownish tint and about flake off. if its white tint your probably too cold or traveling too fast. just my .02 on that tho. others may have different views. they may be more experienced than me so just take my suggestions with a grain of salt. most of all i cannot stress enough make sure all connections are clean. thats the ticket with the suitcase