Engine Drive

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Is it practical to use an engine drive - such as a Miller TB 302 as an all around welder... such as in the field and in the shop... if it is used sparingly?Bang for the buck, I *think* that I would rather buy a nice engine drive to use in the shop and away from the shop... rather than a dedicated shop machine or a smaller inverter for $$$.  Plus, I can take it remote and not worry about power... or use it as a back-up generator at home!Is there any reason why this is a bad way to think?Thanks in advance for the input...Szymancp
Reply:Some additional info - it would be used for building gates, frames, etc... for hobby farming, plus frames, stands, and tanks for brewing processes.  I have experience with a Syncrowave for stick and tig, and a nice little Dynasty 200DX for tig...  Thanks again...
Reply:I use mine at the shop, no problem with that. I even run mine in the shop when the doors are open. Kinda loud, but not so bad you can't stand it..well, at least I can stand it ok enough. The only real time I use it is to TIG or to run high amperage MIG. I have shop units for the other stuff.I'm wondering why you say to use it sparingly? They are tough enough to run flat out all the time and not have an issue.Other than the noise issue, which can get you in trouble with the neighbors, etc,...the only other issues I can see is the cost of running a gas machine vs an electric. The gasser will cost more to run. You also have to be more aware of carbon monoxide building in the shop. If you have enough ventilation, that won't be a problem..but when it is cold or raining..it is more difficult to open it up and get the air you'd need.Matter of fact, here is mine set up and running at the door of the shop. Attached Images
Reply:I use my TB301 for everything, run my feeders off it, and it TIG's damn good too. I can run my mine all day everyday and it is fine, just CHANGE THE OIL AND FILTER REGURLAY!!!!!Disclaimer; "I am just an a$$hole welder, don't take it personally ."
Reply:Thanks for the comments so far (and the picture) - nice clean shop I say sparingly because I'm sure that I'll run it for a project here at the shop for a few 8 hr days, and then it might not get much use for another two weeks unless something else comes up - and then back on again.  Here and there work on projects, and whatever else might need to be fixed.It seems like a great idea because I would really like to have the flexibility of taking it out of the shop, to the farm, etc... as well.  I think that if I'm going to spend $3k on a Syncrowave... or a nice new Dynasty... why not just go with the engine!Thanks again!
Reply:Ventillation shouldn't be a problem - 30 x 40 building w/ one large overhead door... and an old exhaust fan (which I could probably remove and hook directly to the TB exhaust if I wanted to enclose it - just a thought)Last edited by szymancp; 02-18-2008 at 05:44 PM.Reason: Spelling
Reply:I did that for many years.  The duty cycle kicks azz, no problems with getting 220, and you become really proficient with that machine.I did everything including aluminum with that machine.DavidReal world weldin.  When I grow up I want to be a tig weldor.
Reply:Well - this is sounding more and more like the way to go!I suppose I might have a good idea once in a while... hah.Thanks--
Reply:I have used the TB DC and it was an excellent machine, but from what you have listed it is definitely overkill. Should last almost forever if properly maintained. I started out using my engine drive for both, but it is definitely cheaper to run off the power pole.The difference between art and craft is the quality of the workmanship. I am an artist.
Reply:My shop at work is 20X20 but inside is 100X250 with only 2 welder plugs. Outside is about 12 acres of trucks and equipment. If its thin and in my 20X20 hole I'll use my 155 migpac otherwise it's the bobcat for everything.
Reply:Practical solution=yes if you have a nice smooth running machine and as previously stated,well maintained.  Very versatile and portable. You may find that some types of welding processes are limited on various models, so make sure and compare model compatibilities with what processes you plan on using when picking your machine.Last edited by Mark...; 02-19-2008 at 03:25 AM.