If I knew then, what I know now

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First, this is a great site.  Many of the people posting talk in a language a probie like myself can understand.Having already read many posts, but did not see my answer exactly, and I did not want to tag on to standman's post, as he had specifics.With being am newer than new to welding.  In fact the closest I have been is After my buddy got his trailer repaired and he showed me how they did it.In addition to having a utility trailer that needs some modifications and just around the farm things "if I new how to weld", I am now reading and trying to educate myself of what to buy.there are many posts "go bigger" now.  I fully understand the reasoning, which finally brings me to my question (sorry for being long winded).For just around the house / farm projects (with the trailer being the biggest job), what type and size welder should I go with?  the weld does not need to look pretty, as we are talking farm.  But I will want to weld, let's say brackets, hinges and maybe mounts for trailer springs.i would like to thank everyone in advance for the support.Also - is anyone know of any on-line welding classes?  I travel almost 4 - 5 days a week, so local community classes is out.
Reply:First off, WELCOME. I hope you find all the answers you are looking for in this great forum. As far as a general pupose welder, I like my Lincoln AC/DC 225. My wife got for me a few years ago and it's all I use. I also bought a TIG rig and bottle for all my TIGging needs. I weld everything from 1/8" mild steel stick with 7018 to 1/4" aluminum TIG (with an additional HiFreq. box). It's an all around good machine for what it sounds like you would be doing. It came from Farm & Fleet (I'm sure those aren't everywhere) for about 450.00. It would work great for trailer building and farm repairs. I do wish I had a MIG for light guage stuff like body work and for tacking stuff up, but for now my one machine does 90% of what I need. Hope this helps, HenryA bad welder makes a good grinderA grinder and paint makes a welder that ain't!If you can't put a good weld on it, put alot of weld on it!