Thermo Arc 211i TIG question

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Hey folks! Long time lurker. I'm in the market for a new welder and I've come across the Thermo Arc 211i and am quite interested in it. My question is, do you HAVE to utilize the foot control for the TIG function? I plan on buying the machine with the TIG setup, but need to know if I need to grab the foot control too. I would be surprised if I didn't need it, but who knows. Thanks!
Reply:I don't think so.  The manual shows the basic set up without a foot control.  I'm thinking about this machine, too, so I pulled up the manual.  Note it doesn't have a solenoid so you turn on and have to remember to turn off the gas at the torch, I think it's a knob. So, without a pedal you'll have to adjust the heat by long and short arcing a bit.  Never tried it myself but you might want to first and see how it goes.
Reply:I just bought a 211i, I havent got to use the tig setup yet, but No, you do not have to use a foot pedal.   You will set amperage on machine and use the button on the torch.. I posted a thread on the 211i I ordered and when I received it and unboxed it, its in the "Other Manufaturer's" section here on the forum....   The Thermal Arc tig torch is a good quality torch, but it is huge, like a log..  so before you go and order the tig torch that comes with it as an extra accessory, you might just buy the machine without the torch then add a slimmer designed Weldcraft or CK torch and switch/amptrol.   The 211i looks fantastic, it seems like its going to be a good machine.  I ran a couple beads with it and I like it..  I havent had time or felt much like messing around in the garage since I screwed my back and hip up, but the couple beads I have ran with it I liked how the machine acted. It was very smooth and soft compared to my Lincoln 180c, reminded me a lot of my old Miller 252 actually..   I plan on doing a burn in on it later this week if my back and hip is feeling better.Last edited by brucer; 02-04-2013 at 05:27 PM.tackleexperts.comwww.necessityjigs.comhttps://www.facebook.com/groups/mach...dingequipment/
Reply:As I read the manual, you either need a start button on the torch, or a foot pedal. You do need a torch with a gas valve."USMCPOP" First-born son: KIA  Iraq 1/26/05Syncrowave 250 w/ Coolmate 3Dialarc 250, Idealarc 250SP-175 +Firepower TIG 160S (gave the TA 161 STL to the son)Lincwelder AC180C (1952)Victor & Smith O/A torchesMiller spot welder
Reply:Originally Posted by OldendumAs I read the manual, you either need a start button on the torch, or a foot pedal. You do need a torch with a gas valve.
Reply:Originally Posted by brucerI just bought a 211i, I havent got to use the tig setup yet, but No, you do not have to use a foot pedal.   You will set amperage on machine and use the button on the torch.. I posted a thread on the 211i I ordered and when I received it and unboxed it, its in the "Other Manufaturer's" section here on the forum....   The Thermal Arc tig torch is a good quality torch, but it is huge, like a log..  so before you go and order the tig torch that comes with it as an extra accessory, you might just buy the machine without the torch then add a slimmer designed Weldcraft or CK torch and switch/amptrol.   The 211i looks fantastic, it seems like its going to be a good machine.  I ran a couple beads with it and I like it..  I havent had time or felt much like messing around in the garage since I screwed my back and hip up, but the couple beads I have ran with it I liked how the machine acted. It was very smooth and soft compared to my Lincoln 180c, reminded me a lot of my old Miller 252 actually..   I plan on doing a burn in on it later this week if my back and hip is feeling better.
Reply:Originally Posted by JmlcoloradoAre TIG guns with manual valves in the gun pretty commo? Maybe ill heed your advice and hold off on getting the gun and find another smaller torch.