Looking into buying a RedFace what to lookout for?

admin

I might be buying a Redface SA200 but I'm not much of a welder so let me know what to check for thanks?
Reply:You could do what I did, buy several junked machines and build one good one. If you find a machine for a good price make sure it runs good, welds good, and looks as though its been well cared for. Theres a lot of these machines out there, so dont think that will be the last one you find. Check your local craigslist and keep an eye out. As long as one is complete, looks pretty good, and has been run within the last year or two, it can go for as much as $1500. If youre any good with tools remember that the engine part is easier to mess with than the generator, so make sure the generator is good or at least looks good. Lincoln used the same old continental engine in those welders for a good 40 or more years. Theyre simple to fix and work on and parts are readily available. You can even find them in some old tractors and forklifts.My vintage equipment 1957 Lincoln sa 2001980's Lincoln 225 AC1952 F-2 ford truck1957 F-250 ford truck
Reply:Make sure it runs and welds and welds in all settings.  Run it a while and check to see if the radiator leaks or the engine leaks oil.  Most leak oil but it shouldn't leak alot.  Check for exhaust smoke.  check if the idler works.  You could take a DC tool like a grinder and see if the DC outlet works.  If all that checks out i'd pay $1000 easy.  If the tin is straight and it has doors and a good paint job, it'll be a good bit higher.  Don't go off the looks though, focus on the mechanical.  Lastly, check to see if it's really a redface.  It'll have a round generator housing if it's got all copper guts.