Lincoln Invertec V205-T DC Tig Machine - What's the scoop?

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I was speaking to a local Lincoln salesperson today regarding their Tig line, he was talking to me about the Invertec V205-T DC and what it could do basically.I'm looking for a Tig machine to weld race car chassis together, .134 CM and MS tubing, up to .250 CM and MS plate, he said the Invertec V205-T DC could do it easily, in fact he stated that a number of NASCAR race teams use the Invertec V205-T DC to build their chassis.Can this 38 pound machine actually do the job, seems like such a small machine for such a job (when compared to the more traditional Lincoln Tig machines (like a 275 for example).What is with this type of technology, is it really that fantastic?  Is there a downside to all of this?Thanks.Working on cars and bikes is my hobby, learning to weld the pieces together is my quest.
Reply:BTW, the Invertec V205-T DC is small, but not cheap, when you include all the stuff you need it's a lot of dough, almost as much as the Lincoln 275 (without water cooling, etc.).Regards.Working on cars and bikes is my hobby, learning to weld the pieces together is my quest.
Reply:I went to Lincoln to buy a 205-T.  The local dealer steered me towards an arcmaster 185.  I bought it.  I have absolutely no regrets.  He originally said the v205 was discontinued.  I have figured out he was pulling my leg.  BUT he did sell me the machine I needed.  I give the old coot (69) an A+ for doing his job.  I paid "fair market value" for the TA.  After having it for almost a year, its everything I needed.  Not knocking the 205 at all.  MY arcmaster 185 puts out a full 200 amps on DC tig.  I know this by testing it with some good equipment.  After having the 185 for a while, I bought the V350 pro.  Another fine investment.  It welds CV like no machine I have ever used.  If 200 amps will do what you want, I am sure the V205 will be great for you.  The TA 185 is the only welder I have that is NOT red.  I have many.DavidReal world weldin.  When I grow up I want to be a tig weldor.
Reply:I have it, and the 205 is more advanced than I am, or than I am going to be, any time in the near future!!! It is simply a great welder. I upgraded the torch to a WP20, and built a little water cooler for it. Other than the fact that the torch it comes with, you can burn it up doing heavy aluminum work, but the welder itself is tip top. I can regularly crank on it, and get excellent welding on 1/4" aluminum. All told, I am into this thing 3 grand+ , but I have a total package.And then, after so much work...... you have it in your hand, and you look over to your side...... and the runner has run off. Leaving you holding the prize, wondering when the runner will return.
Reply:I hear great things about the thermal arc.  Wasnt the 185 discontinued?  Just wondering...I really love my Lincoln v205t, but my experience with tig is only with the Lincoln line (used a lincoln precision tig 185 and 275).  I kinda liked working with the bigger machines, just didnt like the weight of em.  They roll around easy, and you dont have to build a cart for em though The precision Tig 275 was my favorite out the 3 though.  But for home, the little guy does just great.Various GrindersVictor Journeyman torch200cf Acet. 250cf oxygenLincoln 175 plus/alpha2 gunLincoln v205t tigLincoln 350mpEsab 650 plasmaWhen you can get up in the morning, Its a good day.Live each day like its your last.