Questions about generator/welder combo's.

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My other question was listed as "I want to weld rollcages, which welder should I get, etc"This question is in reference to gas or diesel powered welders. There are 2 options I would like people to chime in on about. The first option would be a welder/generator in ONE, like the Lincoln Ranger 10,000. One would have to assume, that since it is portable, strong, and rugged, and can do 3 processes, (stick, MIG, TIG) that it would be a wise purchase. Ebay has them for 2525$ I have found. Anyone have pros/cons for this or better deals?My second option, which I am not sure it is possible, is to buy a generator and a welder SEPERATE. I have seen 10,000 Watt 110/220 amp generators at Lowe's for 650$. Can I power up a 220V welder into this recepticle, the same way you would into a dryer outlet? Would purchasing a generator and welder seperatly be more wise than the combo? Would it be cheaper? Is "dirty" fuel the same as "clean" fuel? Any advice or suggestions are welcome. BTW I will be welding a rollcage, and frame of a buggy, perhaps using Chrome-Moly (any better advice?), and need something good, and that has many options (stich, MIG, TIG>)Thanks
Reply:engine driven machines are expensive to operate if you dont need them. I wouldnt waste the $ on a genset from Lowes. I would get a Ranger if I needed one but that 2600 doesnt have anything you need to run anything.  Its just the machine. The first machine I would get for light fab is a MM210 and go from there. One thing at a time.www.urkafarms.com
Reply:One thing to research while looking at any of the fuel operated gensets/welders is their factory rated gallons per hour. That may help in deciding whether you want to go with completely portable or not."The things that will destroy America are prosperity at any price, peace at any price, safety first instead of duty first, the love of soft living and the get rich quick theory of life." -Theodore Roosevelt
Reply:anyone else have any opinions on generators such as linoln ranger 10000 or miller bobcats, surely there must be more than 2 ppl with opinions. thanks
Reply:I may be a little late in responding.I personally own a bobcat 225 NT.   I love it.  They have a new model now and I kinda wish I had it, but quite frankly im pleased with what Ive got.   10 gallon fuel tank.  I dont remember the actually fuel hourage I get, but I dont burn that much.  There are a lot of questions and opinions on the actual make and model.  Some say, "If you want a beer, get a Miller, if you want to weld, get a Lincoln."   Others say,  "BLUE"  while others are hot for "Red."  For me it wasnt that simple. I have used both machines, and trailblazers and pipeliners.  I went with a 225 bobcat because it has more than enough for anything I need it for.  The bigger machines are nice, but even in the pipe industry 200 amps is enough for general pipe applications.  Really, other than wanting bigger rods to weld faster I cant see a reason to go with bigger.  I think you should pick one of the two,  perhaps go to the supplier, find out the prices, and weigh out your options.  THere both very comparable machines so for the most part its gonna be the price I think.  Sometimes, you can check the local welders in your area.  Find out the brand the majority of them use.  Its not a proven thing, but it can help make the decesion easier.  Some regions distributors are lincoln friendly, some miller friendly,  while most tend to offer both, but leen toward oine brand or the other.  Your just looking for availibility of parts and service.  Good luckCHRIS