Any particular issues with a MIG?

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Very close on a Miller 211.  Before the point of no return (the "...gee, wish I had not..."), are there any generic problems with MIG that I should know about, or any potential operator caused problems between the 211 and larger MIG.  I have read that inverter machines are more prone to failure than a heavy transformer type welder; I have no idea what a MIG, or specifically the 211 or larger units have (as compared to a heavy stick welder).  I did read the manfuacturer's information but am still stupid.  I know the box is full of electronics so am hopeful it has an automatic stupid switch that shuts it off before letting the smoke out.  These things are expensive but would rather spend more if the tendency is for newbies to trash a MIG 211.Thanks for helping...electric welding is new to me.Chris
Reply:I’ll resist that question less I get hollered on for overstepping my bounds.
Reply:Transit, thanks anyway, appreciate the consideration; I was cautioned that that sometimes happens on this forum.I spoke with Miller this morning, could not call them when I had the question, and have answers to the basic questions I had.  Cheers,Chris
Reply:Call Volunteer welding supply in Nashville and talk to David or Fred. They know their stuff and they are big miller guys. I can guarantee that those guys will be able to answer all of your questions and break it down into real english. Both have been at that same store since 1997 when I first started to deal with them, no telling how long they've been there. here ya go, http://www.volunteerwelding.com/family.phpDavid is the guy in the middle and Fred is the guy on the left. Great group of guys! Can't say enough good about these folks. Give em a call.aka Cumminsguy71 at other forums....would not work here??
Reply:Chris, you may find these sites helpful.http://www.lincolnelectric.com/knowl...ent/migfaq.asphttp://www.weldreality.com/http://www.hobartwelders.com/elearning/
Reply:I believe you may be over thinking this a bit. If the question is mig vs stick, you can't exactly compare the 2 because they both have good things and bad points. Lots of posts have covered this well. If the question is inverter vs transformer, again they are different things so you can't exactly compare them. Even transformer machines have electronics in them today, so that evens the field there. You won't get a transformer machine that will do both 220v and 110v. You get one, or the other, not both. That means if you like that option, you go with the MM211. Transformer machines are heavier and larger. On the plus side, the transformers are usually cheaper vs a similar inverter.If I had to buy just one machine today as a hobiest, it would be the MM211. It would give me the widest array of options I believe. If I did not get that machine, then my choice would end up being a significantly larger unit, like an XMT power source with a separate wire feed unit. BIG BUCKS, and way over kill for most.Good luck, hope this helped..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:Originally Posted by transitI’ll resist that question less I get hollered on for overstepping my bounds.
Reply:Originally Posted by klbwelding71Call Volunteer welding supply in Nashville and talk to David or Fred. They know their stuff and they are big miller guys. I can guarantee that those guys will be able to answer all of your questions and break it down into real english. Both have been at that same store since 1997 when I first started to deal with them, no telling how long they've been there. here ya go, http://www.volunteerwelding.com/family.phpDavid is the guy in the middle and Fred is the guy on the left. Great group of guys! Can't say enough good about these folks. Give em a call.
Reply:Originally Posted by ed macdo they work for the state sitting around doing zip and there site s-cks
Reply:Originally Posted by Broccoli1WTF?Someone piss in yer cereal this morning?
Reply:Wish I had got back to this forum...but the 211 is in my car already...too heavy to unload during a heavy downpour.  Time was up to save the $75 and since I don't make $ with it (home fix and make stuff), needed to take advantage.  It is a transformer type welder, so says the manufacturer.  I have not had great experiences with power inverters (I turned them on ) and with what I read, was all I had to go on at the time.  Really appreciate the help and taking time to respond.   Now, if I can figure out how to turn it on....Chris
Reply:I think you done good.  I was going to get that same machine.  From my research and all that I read, that is the best machine in it's class, offering the most number of features and the best value.  The Auto-set will really help you get started with MIG welding.  I ended up stepping up to the MM212 as I didn't need the 120v option and wanted the larger platform, the ability to run bigger spools, the bigger gun and a little more output..Here is the link to the Miller forums:http://millerwelds.com/resources/communities/mboard/