Tuning 3200HD welder for 3/16

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I have a Lincoln 3200HD. I've had it a few years, mainly just run .023 wire with CO2 for bodywork and light duty around the house. I have now come across a heavier duty use. I need to weld boxing plates in a truck. The plates are 3/16. The frame consists of two C-channel pieces sandwiched together, probably a little thinner than 3/16 total thickness. I was hoping a friend with better welding skills could help out but I'm not sure what I should tune the welder to. I have no real access to 220 and the truck can't move. I'm debating using .030 wire and trying it out on a high setting. I could probably use the flux core since I know the welder can handle it, but would prefer MIG. I also have to weld in 3/16 brackets to the 3/16 plates. Would .030 wire work fine on the highest setting? Thanks.
Reply:Note really. Despite what Lincoln might say, that machine really tops out at just under 1/8" under real world conditions. It simply doesn't have the output to do structural welds on 3/16" material. FC will get you the most out of that machine, but it will still fall short under normal conditions. You can try to tune it all you want, it won't solve the power problem.Your limiting factor is almost always the input power, that's why 230v machines can do more than 1/8". They have more power available. If you are welding on less than a dedicated 20 amp breaker, or are using an extension cord, expect you won't even get 1/8" out of that machine due to voltage drop. The only way you stand any chance of getting close to the "rated" max on that machine would be to plug it into a 30 amp 115v circuit and if need be run it from a heavy 10 ga cord to limit voltage loss. Even then I wouldn't trust the welds for anything critical, especially if you are going to be doing them out of position in an awkward place..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:I'll try to figure out how hard it would be to run a 220 hookup in the garage. My friend has a 220 welder and I'd rather him use his own welder to do this job since he knows his machine. I have 20 amp breakers, not sure if it is ideal for 220 or not.
Reply:Best way to get a temporary 220v power to the garage would be to make a 220v extension cord and run if off your 230v dryer outlet ( assuming you have an electric dryer) You could also run if from an electric range outlet if need be. A 50' cord usually will get you where you need to go. If you need to go farther, go with a 10 ga cord.This thread covers if pretty well.http://weldingweb.com/vbb/showthread.php?t=11537The other option would be to get a 2pole 220 v breaker and do a temporary tie in at the panel. I wouldn't recommend that unless you are very comfortable with electricity. I wouldn't try any of the "hack" mods some have suggested in the past where guys try to run off 2 110v breakers. There are all sorts of real dangers trying to go that route..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:preheating the metal would help that little feller..