welding cables

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Just bought a used miller thunderbolt acdc machine as new for 150.00.  What's the best place to pick up some 1.0 cable? I don't want to spend 350.00. Attached Images
Reply:https://www.facebook.com/pages/Elect...22082121139733 1st on WeldingWeb to have a scrolling sig! HTP Invertig 400HTP Invertig 221HTP ProPulse 300HTP ProPulse 200 x2HTP ProPulse 220MTSHTP Inverarc 200TLP HTP Microcut 875SC
Reply:Wouldn't think you'd spend 350 for leads.  That's a pretty underpowered machine.  I know, because I have the Lincoln comparable machine.  At most, you really don't want to run more than 50' of leads.  That's 25' out, and 25' back."Any day above ground is a good day"http://www.farmersamm.com/
Reply:Do you mean 1/0 cable? That's way overkill. #2 would be fine for a Thunderbolt.
Reply:Try eBay.  Lots of resources there, and all sizes.  I just got some #4 for my old PowCon for about $30; I only needed short cables 'cuz I am in a garage & it's portable.Steve BradleyMiller 150SVictor OA outfit...PowCon 130SE (It Works!!)Backyard ShopLots of old toolsToo Many Bicycles
Reply:check out craigslist. you may find cables with a machine attached real cheep.i.u.o.e. # 15queens, ny and sunny fla
Reply:Originally Posted by Oscarhttps://www.facebook.com/pages/Elect...22082121139733
Reply:That's a clean machine for $150! Nice Score! Don't let them scare you with the "under powered" comment! It will do a lot of good work for the average user! I used to even TIG with mine! Cable from Ebay, number 2 size is fine!
Reply:Originally Posted by Welder DaveDo you mean 1/0 cable? That's way overkill. #2 would be fine for a Thunderbolt.
Reply:While I agree #2 is fine for that machine #1 is only 22 cents more per foot and 1/0 52 cents more per foot.If he is buying 100' (50' ground / 50' stinger) for only $22 or $52 he could get a lot better cable that would be usable on virtually any machine a individual might have. I have a machine with leads that have been on it for at least 20 years. With a little care they will last a long time.
Reply:Verify the inside of the stock connector to see what will fit.
Reply:Find the right plugs and buy cable by the foot.You dont need extra long cable.TSC sells cable by the foot.20 bucks will buy a ground clamp and electrode holder.I saw 200 amp ground clamps for 5 bucks and a 200 amp rod holder for 14 bucks.Most hardware stores have Forney Products for sale around here.I have welded with 24 feet of #4 cable.Welding supply stores will have the Miller plugs or order them for you.
Reply:eBay has some pretty good deals, but I would also check your local salvage yard.  Most have welding cable, and I have found it there fairly cheap.  I would try to do 50' at the minimum, makes the machine a lot more convenient when you never have to move it.
Reply:Originally Posted by farmersammWouldn't think you'd spend 350 for leads.  That's a pretty underpowered machine.  I know, because I have the Lincoln comparable machine.  At most, you really don't want to run more than 50' of leads.  That's 25' out, and 25' back.
Reply:oh another idea take those little plugs on the machine cut a foot of cable and put a female Jackson on the other end,  those lil plugs are overpriced and hard to work with. jacksons are the standard around this part of the world anyway!
Reply:Thanks for all your responses everyone. I do appreciate all of you and applaud your knowledge!!
Reply:#2 or #1 at most. 1/0 will wear you out. Heck the new cracker box Lincolns come with #4 I think!
Reply:Originally Posted by DrilldoWhile I agree #2 is fine for that machine #1 is only 22 cents more per foot and 1/0 52 cents more per foot.If he is buying 100' (50' ground / 50' stinger) for only $22 or $52 he could get a lot better cable that would be usable on virtually any machine a individual might have. I have a machine with leads that have been on it for at least 20 years. With a little care they will last a long time.
Reply:My decision is drum roll...#1! A corollary to that question.  I need an extension cord to get this machine where I can use it.  Is it cheaper to buy or make your own?  Pros cons?  I only need 20 feet of extension. All of you helped greatly I my decision ty so much.
Reply:Like you idea!
Reply:Originally Posted by rambinoh another idea take those little plugs on the machine cut a foot of cable and put a female Jackson on the other end,  those lil plugs are overpriced and hard to work with. jacksons are the standard around this part of the world anyway!
Reply:Here's a couple 8/3 cords.  You could price some 8/3 cord at a local electrical supply house.  Tell them it's for an extension cord. http://www.weldingsuppliesfromioc.co...extension+cord8/3 SOOW cord $1.65/ft.  http://www.wireandcabletogo.com/Port...0V-Non-UL.html  They also sell welder cords."USMCPOP" First-born son: KIA  Iraq 1/26/05Syncrowave 250 w/ Coolmate 3Dialarc 250, Idealarc 250SP-175 +Firepower TIG 160S (gave the TA 161 STL to the son)Lincwelder AC180C (1952)Victor & Smith O/A torchesMiller spot welder
Reply:Originally Posted by OldendumHere's a couple 8/3 cords.  You could price some 8/3 cord at a local electrical supply house.  Tell them it's for an extension cord. http://www.weldingsuppliesfromioc.co...extension+cord8/3 SOOW cord $1.65/ft.  http://www.wireandcabletogo.com/Port...0V-Non-UL.html  They also sell welder cords.
Reply:Originally Posted by Welder DaveSmaller cable will last just as long as larger cable. Why throw money away if you don't have to?
Reply:No offense taken. I agree one can't have too many.HH 190Uniweld TorchesLincoln 225 ac-sMarquette Starjet torches gaugesHere is a 25' one for $63.50 http://m.ebay.com/itm/221631100263?nav=SEARCHBy the way I think the #1 was a good choice. You will enjoy that welder. I used to own one and have nothing but  find memories of it.