Multiprocess welders for hobby/farm use

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Hi,I'd like some opinions about the new crop of multiprocess welders that are out (and/or coming soon).I'm just a "hobby" weldeor and that means occasional use all the way from auto sheetmetal to 4x4 armor to tractor 3-point hitch accessory fab/repair. There are some repairs that might involve AL (lawnchairs, fencing). IMO, this isn't to atypical for many "non-pros".So, I expect a 210 to 250 class MIG covers roughly 90% of the use (again probably weeknights/weekends only). A spoolgun would also probably be sufficient for the repairs needed on AL. I'd like tho to learn to TIG (some classes are reasonably close and affordable) and having the ability to practice-practice-practice on my own would be nice!I'll be getting a bonus check soon that will fund my welder purchase (as well as PAC). So, the timeframe for purchasing is the next ~6 months.Seperates have been where I'm leaning at the moment (MM211 + HT40 + chino TIG).But, the ThermalArc 3-in-1 models are looking attractive. I also understand rumors are out that Miller is coming out with a "MultiMatic" sometime soon. For all I know Lincoln might also have something similar in the pipeline.Honestly, if the TA252i had AC tig, my search would be over (and even with DC tig only might be just fine with me).It might be a little early to know how a "multipurpose" unit is doing for folks, but in general, are they a nice solution for someone that needs mostly MIG but perhaps some additional functionality on occasion?Should a "use case" such as this just simply get a MIG+spoolgun and then then later bone up for a TIG/Stick?I also realize this forum isn't "dear abby" ... so I'll understand answers like " sheesh, grow a pair and make your own decision" One last note, I'm only really considering things available at my LWS (Miller/Lincoln/HyperTherm/ThermaDyne).
Reply:Consumables etc add up surprisingly fast, so I buy in bulk at the best deals I can find.Consider getting the MIG, the plasma, and waiting on the TIG for the future and/or buying a quality used US machine of whatever flavor you find appealing. That's more money left from the check for the various tools which will make work easy, faster, and more fun.If you don't have a SIX-inch angle grinder and a bunch of cutting disks, get one. For your expressed needs I'd get that before a TIG tho it's much less money.
Reply:I still have a good supply of various other metal working tools after my move (sold a bunch tho, and some were stolen). Trust me, there are other items on the "replacement" list outside of the welder/plasma. My LWS is going to love me!I'm also not in a hurry to get a TIG setup, but the multiprocess units are attractive in that "well it *can*". One example is, when I bought my tractor 8 years ago, I went ahead and splurged for a backhoe attachment (added 30% to the total price). I had no immediate need for a backhoe and went back and forth if I would get the use out of it or would I be better off renting one when I needed one. Turns out, I use it almost as much as the FEL. Added a thumb, and can pick rocks, I rarely pickup a shovel, pluck a stump or plant a tree, no problem. I can't imagine NOT having it now ... It made the tractor much more "multipurpose".P.S. Tractor is a Kubota 3130 and already has paid for itself.
Reply:I usually try to get separate welding machines.I like to avoid the "All the eggs in one basket" problemIf one dies, one of the others can pick up the slack, in some shape or form.
Reply:Looking at your usage needs, it may be a better fit for a used transformer based TIG welder. One would give you the ability to go from sheet metal to farm implements as well as aluminum. Checked Craigslist for your area and there is this ad right in Redding."I have an Airco 250AMP AC/DC Heli Welder welding machine Water cooled with flow meter hoses and tig torch Takes 220 plug I paid $1500 asking $750 OBO If interested call 921-4245 ask for Tim"More than likely will not be there in six months time and won't do a thing for you as far as a plasma cutter, but hopefully gives you another range of options to think about. With a cheap older model TIG you can be up and running and a new or used MIG at a later date, should you see the need, will run you significantly less than a new TIG.Lincoln PrecisionTig 275Miller 251Miller DialArc 250Bridgeport millHossfeld bender & diesLogan shaperJet 14 X 40 latheSouth Bend 9" 'C'Hypertherm 900Ellis 3000 band saw21"Royersford ExcelsiorTwo shops, still too many tools.
Reply:Multiprocess  welder....simple get a used Miller 304 ( or 350), good stick, good wire, reasonably fair TIG. They go for $1000-$1200 ish. Lincoln makes a similar machine, but I like the Miller better ( personal choice ) I have welded on both.
Reply:I'll agree the XMT is a good choice as a multi purpose machine. I've got a decent 200 amp mig and a syncrowave 200 for tig/stick, yet I'd still love to have an XMT 304 and a feeder ( will probably go that route to upgrade my mig eventually when the right deal comes around), and would probably use that rather than my syncro to stick weld. It's a lot more machine than the average hobbyist needs usually, but if you can find the right deal it's well worth it. Adding the feeder and tig parts will push that number closer to $2000-2500 however ( $500-800 for a feeder used, $300-400 plus depending on the tig gear.), and you still won't have AC tig. Add close to another $700-1000 if you want to add a spoolgun and controller most likely.Last edited by DSW; 02-11-2012 at 10:37 AM..No government ever voluntarily reduces itself in size. Government programs, once launched, never disappear. Actually, a government bureau is the nearest thing to eternal life we'll ever see on this earth! Ronald Reagan
Reply:Originally Posted by BlueweldersI usually try to get separate welding machines.I like to avoid the "All the eggs in one basket" problemIf one dies, one of the others can pick up the slack, in some shape or form.