SA-200 problems

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I have a '73 SA-200, I think Ive found the problem with the welder to be the exciter shunt coils, has anyone changed them, if so how bad a project is it?
Reply:1973 was the year Lincoln started using the aluminum field coils, I believe. Since you have to press out the old coils and press in the new ones, it is about the worst job you can have on a Lincoln - requires you to split machine. If you are going to do it, first make sure one of the coils is open and if so, replace with copper coils. weldersales
Reply:If I remember correctly, the exciter coils aren't that hard to replace.  I think you need to remove the brush holders, remove the two bolts from each pole piece, and slide the coils and pole pieces right out of the exciter.I'm not certain if the exciter armature will need to come out.  The time I replaced a set, the armature was out, but it looks like you might be able to slide them out the end with the armature in place.The main generator coils are the ones that require the generator frame to be removed from the welder.  The coils need to be pressed out and then back in.  Lots of work there.Cheers,Bob
Reply:Pardon me, BobC is exactly right. I misread the post and had in mind the main shunt field coils. The two exciter coils are about the easiest thing to replace on a Lincoln that there is and yes you can do it with the exciter armature in place although to remove it is a quick and painless job. Same story about the copper versus aluminum, though. Actually, if you are sure that the exciter field coils are your problem, you can replace only the defective one for about 50 to 75 dollars. weldersales