newb question: which used stick machine to buy

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I'm looking to buy a used AC & DC stick machine for light steel fabrication, lower-cost operation,  and to use to improve my novice skill level.Currently I can pick up a 1980 Miller Dialarc ac/dc 250 or an older  Lincoln AD/DC idealarc 250 (tombstone-like, rounded topmachine) for a price that meets my budget. Both are similarly used, and in  maintained condition.Are these machines essentially equally good values, or is one typically more trouble free,easier to get parts for, or easier for a novice to use or grow into? I'm  looking to avoid a machine that needs fussing over or will require purchasing a 'donor' machine to fix it in the future.Also in surveying these machines, what would be common things a mechanically skilled, newbie welder  should  examine to evaluate the condition, remaining life of the machine?Thanks for your help.Craig in SeattleLast edited by retro_shop; 05-24-2007 at 12:31 PM.
Reply:When I hear Tombstone, I think of the cheap AC225 model or the similar AC/DC model. I don't think of a top-quality unit like an Idealarc.I've not used Dialarcs or Idealarcs, but I think they are both considered top quality units and are equally sought after as good, used machines.I'm sure we'll get some more input soon.
Reply:I rebuilt an old century arc welder.  Got it for $25.  Got it apart and found it had no fan in it.  had much difficulty finding a fan and I could not figure out how it was oriented originally.  Finally, found a century repair center where I got a fan.  The fan lay down and suck air into the welder.Not much in side a arc welder.  The fan and lug could be problem areas.  If leads are not bolted on then the receptacles get worn.  Would an AC/DC welder work on AC but not DC or vice versa?  Check that.I would not think you will have any problems getting parts--might want to check, though.