adding tig torch to a stick welder

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My mig welder runs like a champ. My skills have come a long way. However I'm ready to tackle TIG. My local shop is selling a really robust AC/DC stick welder and will throw in a TIG torch for $150 CDN. Can I just throw my argon bottle and regualtor on it and do non structural Aluminum TIG welds with decent results?The safe path leads to stagnation
Reply:COSWorthYou will need a high frequency unit like a miller--http://www.millerwelds.com/products/...ies/frequency/to do Aluminium welding on AC output.Hope this helps.BrianLincoln Mig 215Miller 211Victor Torch SetMiller Maxstar 200SDMiller Syncrowave 250DX Tig runnerMiller Trailblazer 302 running on LPMiller Extreme 12 VS SuitcaseEllis 1600 BandsawMiller xmt350 CC/CVLincoln Vantage 300
Reply:I understand that the HF is used to start the arc on lower amperage, thin metal welds. Where welding on a 1/4 plate might not require the HF circuitry.Wrong?The safe path leads to stagnation
Reply:Once I used the right keywords the search function became brutally apparent.The money I'll spend on a welder to do aluminum would never be the same amount as just going down the hill and getting the boat shop to weld it up at $20 a pop. I think I'll add some helium to my mix and start using the 4XXX series wire on my mig....The safe path leads to stagnation
Reply:The high frequency unit must be used continuously for any thickness of aluminum.  It not only helps start the arc, but also too maintain the arc during the weld.  If you do not do a lot of aluminum welding, you are right in having it farmed out being less of an investment than purchasing the equipment to do it yourself.A few of my toys !LinuxMintManjaroMiller Roughneck 2E Lincoln WeldPak 100HTP MTS 160 Chicago Electric 80amp Inverter   Victor O/A