I want a welder, but am looking for some clarity on what features are important?

Question

I am wanting to start welding, and am getting overwhelmed by the number of options out there. Right now my welding needs are basic - 1/8" steel, but I don't like boxing myself in with something like this. I'd rather spend a few extra bucks up front and have the ability to move to gas shielded, and maybe be able to weld stainless steel and aluminum.

I am looking at Lincoln since they are priced where I'm looking (under $550). I will probably pick up something refurbished so I can get the most for my money. I also have to have 110, since I don't have a 220V socket (I rent right now, so putting one in isn't an option).

Here are a few questions:

1) Is flux-core MIG (if you can still call it that) a good way to start?

2) Is Lincoln a good brand?

3) Is there a reason to avoid Lincoln welders listed in their "retail section"?

I hope that's not too much detail - I just wanted to avoid asking the typical "what welder is best" question.

I'll also pick best answer, so thanks for the help!

Answer 1

To answer your first question. MIG welding is really easy for a begginer in welding. It is easy to preform but the weld will not be the best out there.

Answer 2

How good looking do you want the weld? Flux core is filthy and messy. Spend the extra and get the gas. You can get by with a CO2 and argon mix to save money.

Lincoln is a well respected brand. Hobart makes a "Handler" in several different models. Make sure you can put different size wire in whatever you get and that someone has replacement parts readily available. Make sure the wire that you want comes in spool sizes that you can use. Not all welders can handle all spool sizes and all wire sizes.

No way a 240 volt can work properly on a 120 volt line. That requires twice the current and a rental properly is unlikely to have the outlet for that much current.

This is an investment, not a whim, spend what you have to for the right stuff. Try a demo unit before you decide. I did and it caused me to change my choice. Don't forget the helmet. Try that before buying too. Many of them are too dark for me to use.

I finally bit the bullet and got an auto-darkening one. More than I planned to spend, but it was worth it.

Actually, 1/8 is fairly thick for a home type wire unit. I mainly do auto body and it is great for me, but that is a LOT thinner.

Answer 3

Check on the Lincolns see if they can be converted from 240 to 120 and back easily. Many do have that feature and it is easy to do.  Lincoln is one of the top brands for welders.  The newer wire feed models have many features that make them attractive.  A new unit may be under $300 easy to use and learn on. then when you are more skilled, you can add a larger machine, and use the wire feed for tacking if it can not be converted to the MIG/TIG work.