Choice of mig wire size for 16 gauge metal

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I am about to start a new project using 16 gauge sheet metal and all I have for wire at the moment is .030. Would a smaller wire be better and if so how much better will it be and why. Also is there a difference in using .023 vs.025. I have a lincoln pro mig 180 and it states it can use .025 but I see .023 is a more popular wire size.
Reply:The .023 because, as a general rule of thumb, you use what is roughly half the thickness of the material. I've never seen a .025 wire.John -  fabricator extraordinaire, car nut!-  bleeding Miller blue! http://www.weldfabzone.com
Reply:.023, .024, .025.   All the same stuff.    It would be better than .030 for the 16 ga.David Real world weldin.  When I grow up I want to be a tig weldor.
Reply:Smaller wire would be better, but I say run what you have.  I run primarily .035 in both my migs, and regularly weld 16ga without any problem.  .030 shouldn't give you any trouble.I'm a Lover, Fighter, Wild horse Rider, and a pretty good welding man......
Reply:737, I'm with Hammack use what you have. That lincoln pro mig 180 should do just fine with the .030 on 16ga. Will be better IF you are using 75/25 argon Co2 mix for gas vs. 100% Co2. It can be done with 100% Co2 just takes more skill. Give it a try and post some picsWaldo
Reply:I am using 75/25 gas but would like to have the least amount of problems that I can and if going to .023 wire would be that much of a help to get a good weld then I would do that. I think I am going to buy some .023 wire anyway just so I can have it if and when I ever need it. Thanks for all your replies.
Reply:Originally Posted by MicroZone"...I've never seen a .025 wire."
Reply:I've never used anything but .035 for 16ga. In most shops you run what is in the machine. I've done it with C25, 100% CO2, and flux core. It's not difficult once you get everything set right and the more you do it the easier it gets.The difference between art and craft is the quality of the workmanship. I am an artist.