[Dug89]

Tig is for the experts, Mig is for the masses. Gas is a must.

If you are doing sheet metal or unibody repair, a 120V 130-140 amp is good. If you are building trailers or installing roll cages, you need over 150 amps, 220 V.

In Welders, duty cycle determines quality and cost. Duty cycle is the ratio of welding time vs rest that the welder needs. 10% would mean that for 1 minute of welding, you need 9 minutes of idle time.

Look at the pinch rollers on the wire feed. Plastic may "bird nest" (when you look in the welder after it does not feed, you will know where that term comes from) or wear out sooner than metal rollers.

Best to buy a welder that you can easily get parts for, tips, wire.... See you local gas shop for suggestions.

I'm also partial to Miller. Daytona Mig has a good 130 amp "portable".

Lastly, make sure you have a 25 amp service plug in your garage if you go 120V.

Happy metal melting. Doug 84 911 ROW