Question about power supply cable size

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Aspiring hobbiest here, considering the purchase of an AC-225 or similar for my shop.  I'm hoping to pick one up used, but I happened to be looking at one in Lowes today, and noticed that the power cord is 12/3, whic seems a bit light for something that draws up to 50 amps.   According to the NEC 12 ga is good for at best 20 amp.  I know that's a bit of an apples/oranges deal as power cords aren't the same as wiring installed in a building, but still....So, I'm wondering,  does this limit the welder performance?  Would it be happier with a larger supply cable?  or is it no big deal?    I'd be interested to hear some thoughts on this.  Also, any suggestions on a good book for a beginner?  I took welding in High school, but that was a while ago, and I doubt I've retained much.
Reply:I would put an 8/3 SO cord on it if it were mine.MM350P/Python/Q300MM175/Q300DialarcHFHTP MIG200PowCon300SMHypertherm380ThermalArc185Purox oaF350CrewCab4x4LoadNGo utilitybedBobcat250XMT304/Optima/SpoolmaticSuitcase12RC/Q300Suitcase8RC/Q400Passport/Q300Smith op
Reply:If that upsets you, don’t look under the covers. That’s how they save pennies and shave the cost down. Which also cuts into the maximum performance you can expect. Yes, they will weld fairly good but when they boast of ½ inch in a single pass think half that or two pass.
Reply:Notice how short the cord is. Combine that with the duty cycle of the machine it's doable that way ,just barely. I 2nd that idea of replacing it with 8/3 SO, SJ, or other suitable cord. With an 8 gauge cord on your machine you could put a 50 ft cord on your machine if you want. While you're upgrading, the welding leads on the new machines are pretty lame also.Tough as nails and damn near as smart
Reply:As long as you're just looking, and used, look for something similar only the AC&DC models. A little more room to roam in the choice of rods. There are lots of them out there, different brands, all priced around the same, $75 to  $200. Nothing wrong with the lincoln buzz box tho. They've done a lot of work for a lot of people for a many years. As mentioned the cord matches the performance.  If my body held up as good as those tombstones I'd be tickled sheetless.