Starting to look for a used TIG welder

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Ok I think I want (don't truly need) a TIG welder. I'm a patient man so I want to get the proper machine the first time. I have looked at many threads on the subject. I seem to be drawn to the miller line. The Maxstar 150  STH seems like the best choice due to high frequency function. Here are a few questions:Is there a significant difference in Lift arc and High frequency?To folks that have the Maxstar 150 do you find it lacking and need the power of the 200?Is there any tigs in the miller line you would avoid? I'm not interested in the DiversionAny companies that sell used TIG machines? I'm not against Lincoln at all just ignorant of themDave ReberWadsworth Ohio
Reply:The 150 is a great little machine, it is a bit limited because of only having 150 amps but lots of steel/stainless can be welded with that. Remember, it won't weld aluminum because its a dc only machine. The arc is very smooth and controllable, even when stick welding. They burn 7018 very nice, I've got some pictures if you want to see them. My machine is the STL but if I was to buy it again it would be the STH, when welding smaller parts I don't like the lift start but for most things its fine. Much better than scratch start, and the solenoid makes it even better. Its extremely portable at about 15lbs.Airco Ac/Dc 300 HeliwelderMillerMatic 200 (stolen)Miller Maxstar 150STLMiller AEAD200LE (welding and generating power) Hobart MIG
Reply:Maxstar is DC only - if you only plan to buy one I'd set the bottom at 200 amps and needs AC/DC cause what's the point of having a nice tig if no aluminum? Dave J.Beware of false knowledge; it is more dangerous than ignorance. ~George Bernard Shaw~ Syncro 350Invertec v250-sThermal Arc 161 and 300MM210DialarcTried being normal once, didn't take....I think it was a Tuesday.
Reply:I would rather have hf.Yes there is about 50 amp difference between the two.I am thinking you are wasting you money buying a tig machine and I don't even know what you intend to do with it.
Reply:Originally Posted by mikecwikI would rather have hf.Yes there is about 50 amp difference between the two.I am thinking you are wasting you money buying a tig machine and I don't even know what you intend to do with it.
Reply:mikecwik I'm rich I teach at a poor rural school  in Ohio (sarcasm). I know what I'm going to do with to make some $$$$$.   Originally Posted by mikecwikI would rather have hf.Yes there is about 50 amp difference between the two.I am thinking you are wasting you money buying a tig machine and I don't even know what you intend to do with it.
Reply:Originally Posted by MinnesotaDaveMaxstar is DC only - if you only plan to buy one I'd set the bottom at 200 amps and needs AC/DC cause what's the point of having a nice tig if no aluminum?
Reply:DSW - can't argue with anything you wrote, but you left out something - personality of the welder!Even if I only have an hour of welding to do, it's impossible for my personality to abide by 20% duty cycle  Dave J.Beware of false knowledge; it is more dangerous than ignorance. ~George Bernard Shaw~ Syncro 350Invertec v250-sThermal Arc 161 and 300MM210DialarcTried being normal once, didn't take....I think it was a Tuesday.
Reply:Thanks guys I will keep an eye on craigslist and evil bay.Dave ReberWadsworth Ohio
Reply:Originally Posted by Reebsmikecwik I'm rich I teach at a poor rural school  in Ohio (sarcasm). I know what I'm going to do with to make some $$$$$.
Reply:Originally Posted by MinnesotaDaveEven if I only have an hour of welding to do, it's impossible for my personality to abide by 20% duty cycle
Reply:Originally Posted by SquirmyPugReminds me.. I still want to "test" the duty cycle of the Maxstar 150 myself. Burning 1/8" 7018 at 125-135 amps I haven't hit the limit yet and 150 amps with tig for a short time didn't cook it either.
Reply:Originally Posted by MinnesotaDaveGeez - slacker! Can't even melt down a little inverter
Reply:Originally Posted by SquirmyPugMaybe I will melt it, then go after its big brother.. The Airco!
Reply:Thanks again guys I'm headed to Florida for a week to hang out with the mom and dad. Maybe I will pick up a Airco 300 when I'm there LOL. Dave J what does that beast weight? Hey Dave saw the PM thanks.Dave ReberWadsworth Ohio
Reply:They are close to 900 lbs - made by Miller for Airco. It's the Miller 330A/BP.Moved mine with an engine hoist and low trailer - can't lift high enough to put on the truck with them.A used Syncrowave 250 is a nice machine too Dave J.Beware of false knowledge; it is more dangerous than ignorance. ~George Bernard Shaw~ Syncro 350Invertec v250-sThermal Arc 161 and 300MM210DialarcTried being normal once, didn't take....I think it was a Tuesday.
Reply:I will have to check my breaker box. I may not have enough AMPs.Dave ReberWadsworth Ohio
Reply:Originally Posted by ReebsThanks again guys I'm headed to Florida for a week to hang out with the mom and dad. Maybe I will pick up a Airco 300 when I'm there LOL. Dave J what does that beast weight? Hey Dave saw the PM thanks.
Reply:Feeding mine on a 60 amp breaker works up to 200 amps AC tig no prob (had it at 230 amps briefly).Pushing it more than that I'm sure a larger breaker would be needed.Dave J.Beware of false knowledge; it is more dangerous than ignorance. ~George Bernard Shaw~ Syncro 350Invertec v250-sThermal Arc 161 and 300MM210DialarcTried being normal once, didn't take....I think it was a Tuesday.
Reply:Moved mine with an engine hoist and low trailer - can't lift high enough to put on the truck with them.
Reply:Dude, what's wrong with the diversion?  I have the 180 and love it.  Simplified and if your new to Tig, I would not hesitate to at least look at it.  Plus it has ac for aluminum should you ever need it.