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Hello to all. I have been reading till my eyes are bleeding and I was hoping for one final answer. I have stick welded in high school and now I want to get into MiG welding. I have already purchased and 10 inch chop saw, 6 inch bench grinder, 4 inch small cutoff hand grinder, welder power outlet is ready. I a pretty set on purchasing a Lincoln MiG. I have found a really good deal on a 180T refurb model for under $545. I was going to purchase a brand new 180C for about $730 with a $50 dollar gift card from Lincoln,so I would really pay $670. Both of these welders have free shipping. What is everyone opinion on the difference of the quality of the finished welds between these 2 models? I was told the C model is easier to use , setup and gives you better looking welds? I believe weld strength is the same for these 2 models? I would eventually like to do some Al MiG welding like boxes on the trailer,etc. Is it worth to buy the 180C now?Thanks, JeffP.s I have an itchy "Buy It Now" finger for Ebay. Ha
Reply:Originally Posted by jt37243 I was told the C model is easier to use , setup and gives you better looking welds?
Reply:I haven't ran the T model. I own a 180C and run one at work too. I've never ran the 180C on aluminum, only steel and stainless steel, and performance wise (arc characteristics and weld puddle wetout) it is a very nice unit on both of these metals. The dials on the unit have a fairly wide window of operation, which makes the 180C a fairly easy unit to dial the arc in on.I will point out that the Hobart and Miller units in this amperage class offer more top end voltage ( 1 to 2 more)  then the Lincoln's, giving the Hobart and Miller more top end power. This could be an advantage for aluminum.The disavantage to the Hobart being though that you can run a spool gun off it without the addition of an expensive control unit for the spool gun.
Reply:Thanks for the comments. I just purchased a 180C, It should be at my home in 7-10 days.