[Zeke]

I'm thinking of moving up to the big time (sort of). I can get a used Miller XMT 304 or the Lincoln equivalent Invertec 350 for around $1400 bare. I'd have to outfit it with leads, gas, etc. The possibilities are endless with one of these inverters; all processes.

They look portable enough (88-90 lbs) to take along to a job and they work on several power supplies, selecting the appropriate settings internally. However, I don't see ever encountering a situation where 3-phase will be available, so 220 single phase is going to be the norm.

These machines are very compact unlike any engine driven units, but I will always have the hassle of finding a big enough 220 circuit. The usual clothes dryer circuit will work if the welding work doesn't demand a lot of current. So, no bridge building in your driveway or mine.

New, these things cost over 3500 new, depending. But some say to buy separate machines, like a MIG for most work and a SMAW/GTAW machine for stick and TIG. I'm planning on light duty repair and fabrication. Sort of the handyman version of the mobile welder.

As the economy goes further down the toilet, deals are popping up everywhere on all kinds of machines. For instance, there's a complete AC/DC stick/TIG with all the trimmings including a huge, full bottle of gas FS locally for 1400 and I'll bet it goes for 1200. However, I'd still need a decent MIG outfit and for the grand that will cost, I could buy every accessory for the XMT.

Decisions, decisions.

Of course I will listen to and appreciate any advice.