AC/DC TIG welder for $649

[95grntsi]

So there is a button on the Torch to start the arc, and then the foot pedal controls the amperage? The pedal won't start the arc when depressed? I had the cheap harbor freight tig with the high frequency start and I hated having to keep the button on the torch down.

 

[Gamble97]

So there is a button on the Torch to start the arc, and then the foot pedal controls the amperage? The pedal won't start the arc when depressed? I had the cheap harbor freight tig with the high frequency start and I hated having to keep the button on the torch down.

No, you can use the pedal to start, stop and vary the amperage. The button is if you didn't want to use the foot pedal. Say getting in tight spacing for a cage or stuff like that. It's great, but simply and on/off switch.
Also works great for tacking stuff together with double the needed amperage.

 

[BeatupVR4]

Yea, I have to agree that although cheap prices are acceptable in some areas of tooling, a welder isn't where you want to skimp. There's a reason you will see Miller and Hobart machines that ate 10-15 years old working like new, but I've yet to see anyone with a cheaper unit have them for much time. Let alone one that will stand up and brag about the reliability of the machine. Most that I know usually will admit they regret not spending a couple hundred more yo get the miller unit

Our main machine at work is a Hobart TR-300-HF from the 80's. Our "backup" is a Miller Syncrowave 300 that's only a few years old. If you buy nice stuff and take care of it it will usually last a LONG time.

 

[Gamble97]

This is true. However I also think all the older technology stuff will outlast us. Even the new inverter machines (regardless of where it's made) wont last as long. Look at all the old tools, bandsaws, drill presses etc. the ones that are older always hold their value and sell first.

 

[compression]

Don't want to be "that" guy, but i am heavily considering buying this welder.. I do support local shops and have them weld my pieces when i need them done.

I am in the process of building a manifold , i was going to cut,fab, tack, and have a shop weld it, they would have to see it for sure, but quote about $300, for a full tig weld.

I am not an expert , maybe that price is too high (or low?) and would take about 30-45 days because he is quite backed up.

I figured for an extra $400ish, and 45 days to practice, i could have the tools and knowledge to pick up this trade on my own and eventually get into something bigger and better. That is good logic yea? I have been on craigslist around florida just browsing around and i dont really see anything that jumps out at me, most dont come with everything, are wayy to much, 20+ years old, or can only do dc.

So where does that leave me? ive realistically got about $750ish to spend.

Couple things to note, i do have a gas mig welder (nothing super fancy) and have some general knowledge on welding. Most people in their group of friends have that guy who welds for them, with the exception of me , i don't really have a reliable option.

 

[joescool2008]

300 for a expert with tons of experience and a high quality machine to do the welds with that will more than likely support his work afterwards sounds like 400 bucks saved. Worst case scenario with you doing it is, you never get it quite right or you think your awesome and all your stuff comes apart going down the track

 

[compression]

Which tig do you recommend? is there something that's a tad more with superior quality?

Theres a few parts on my car that i have mig welded, and they are still intact! if it was questionable i wouldn't risk it for sure. And worst case scenario would be more like i helicopter crashes on the highway and i died in a pile-up on the way to the track.

I'm sure it will take me some time to get the hang of it. I'm not expecting to lay down some beautiful beads straight out of the box, but i have quite a bit of scrap metal and the will to learn.

 

[Gamble97]

Get the 160sx or 200sx and practice. You will love the machine. I just sent you a pm. I can get you guys a 20% discount on longevity welders (not the stick welder that is only $149)

 

[compression]

I will be getting a bonus from work here in a few weeks, if all goes as planned i will end up with one of these!

 

[buhay6]

Seems like a decent welder for sure, great review by the way! I just bought a Thermal Arc fabricator 181i, haven't picked up a welder for 5 years but had to now for my build. Hopefully I can get my old skill back, don't know much about welding other then I used to do it very well for not knowing anything about it.