Welders: Lincoln vs Miller

[widebody911]

I walked into the local welding store yesterday all hot to buy this Miller 210 package http://store.cyberweld.com/mil210witspo.html

But the sales guy asks "Why did you pick that one?" I explained some of the research I'd done, and that one of the cool features of the Miller was the simple spool gun plugin. He suggested I get the Lincoln 215 instead: http://www.welders-direct.com/merchant2/merchant.mv?Screen=PROD&Store_Code=WD&Product_Code=K2326-1

(links for general reference only)

The Lincoln is two or three lap dances more, but it's spool gun is more refined and run a higher amperage. You can also adjust the wire speed on the gun, which you can't on the Miller. You can also adjust the spool position on the Lincoln gun, not on the Miller. The 'inconvenience' of the Lincoln is that you have to shut the unit off and flip a switch to use their spool gun. That being said, my primary use will be for steel, but I'd like the capability to do Al.

The ratings appear to be more or less the same.

I have a Linoln 100 now, that I bought in '91 and have zillions of hours on it.

I decided to pull the trigger (pun intended) on the spool gun now because I know I'd talk myself out of it later.

So, is there any other compelling reason to get one or the other?

While I knew this distributor (AirGas) carried both brands, I didn't realize they'd have them in stock; I couldn't carry this in the M3, so I went home empty handed. I drove the VW single cab to work today...

[dhoward]

They're both excellent welders.
As far as reliability, it's a wash. Buy the features you want. I'd say good choice...

[Anton]

Miller.

[72olive911T]

I Love my Millermatic 175. Using 230v is more of a hassle, but the arc is very smooth.
I'm not sure if having the wire speed on the gun would matter to me. This is the only
welder I've ever used, and the only problem i've had is with an occaisional wire tangle at the
tensioner, probably my fault.

[widebody911]

Originally posted by 72olive911T
the only problem i've had is with an occaisional wire tangle at thetensioner, probably my fault.

Actually, that's another feature the guy pointed out: the Lincoln has a different wire guide mech, which supports the wire all the way into the wand, whereas the wire in the Miller travels an inch or so in 'open space'.

(gee, it kinda sounds like I'm trying to sell myself on the Lincoln, doesn't it?)

[dhoward]

Originally posted by dhoward
They're both excellent welders.
As far as reliability, it's a wash. Buy the features you want. I'd say good choice...

....but if I were you, I'd buy the Lincoln....

[Eric 951]

They are both quality welders--can't go wrong with either for a spool-fed. We run both in our shop.