Newbie - Need Help Selecting First MIG

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Hi All!This is my first post to the forum, I am sure there will be many, many more. Long story short, I have never attempted to weld, so I will be a true beginner. My goal is to weld things such as exhaust, bumpers, fenders, etc. for my Jeep Wrangler. Also, I would like to be able to weld things around the home. I have been told by several folks to go with a MIG style welder as it is one of the easier to learn and is great on the automotive side of things. Really just stumped on how powerful I would need in a welder to accomplish the jobs I mentioned above, always of the mindset buy quality up front so I don't have to replace in the near future.A couple that have caught my eye would be the Hobart 140, Hobart 190, Lincoln 140, Lincoln 190 and the Klutch 140 (I believe this is made by Northern Tool, but not sure).Also, another tid bit, I have no open 240v outlets except for on my portable generator, which has start watts of 6,250 and continuous of 5,000.All input greatly appreciated! Thanks gang and I look forward to many future chats!
Reply:Despite what manufacturers literature might say 110v migs top out at 1/8" steel under ideal real world conditions. Best bet is a 230v capable machine. Many homes have a 230v dryer outlet and a long extension cord  will allow you to run most 200 amp or less migs at max output if need be.The newer 110v/230v migs like Miller 211, Hobarts HH210 and Lincolns unit allow you the best of both worlds. On 230v all will do at least 1/4" and the Miller and Hobarts will do 3/8". If you need to be portable, on 110v all will top out at 1/8". run the machines on 230v in the shop and then if you need to do light work away from the house, you don't need a 2nd machine..No government ever voluntarily reduces itself in size. Government programs, once launched, never disappear. Actually, a government bureau is the nearest thing to eternal life we'll ever see on this earth! Ronald Reagan
Reply:A Tweco 211i runs on 110 or 220 and is a top of the line welder, Cyberworld has them for $941 and there is a $100. rebate. you get 160 amps on 110.Thermal Arc 210 - Tweco 211I - Cutmaster 52
Reply:Millermatic 211 is a awesome machine. You will not be disappointed.
Reply:Originally Posted by DSWThe newer 110v/230v migs like Miller 211...
Reply:Originally Posted by Mr. SmithI'll also suggest the 211. I have one and am very happy with it. My sole complaint is the 10' gun length, but that's easily solved with the M-150 15' gun for not much money. You can run three different wire sizes with the included drive roll, has an aluminum drive system, and includes plugs for both 110V and 220V outlets. It includes everything you need except a bottle of gas. Welder Supply has it for $1,065 and it's eligible for a $200 rebate. It's a lot of machine for the money.
Reply:Originally Posted by Mr. SmithI'll also suggest the 211. I have one and am very happy with it. My sole complaint is the 10' gun length, but that's easily solved with the M-150 15' gun for not much money. You can run three different wire sizes with the included drive roll, has an aluminum drive system, and includes plugs for both 110V and 220V outlets. It includes everything you need except a bottle of gas. Welder Supply has it for $1,065 and it's eligible for a $200 rebate. It's a lot of machine for the money.
Reply:Miller 211.  'Nuff said.Lincoln Power Mig 216Lincoln AC/DC-225/125Miller  625 X-Treme PlasmaMiller 211 Forney 95FI-A 301HF 91110Victor Journeyman O/PMilwaukee DaytonMakita  Baileigh NRA Life Member
Reply:Originally Posted by SuperArcMiller 211.  'Nuff said.
Reply:Originally Posted by BD1ME TOO ! Good bang for the buck for a beginner or pro. You could just go to the 252 MILLER if you are just starting out.