Welder what to buy? - The Hull Truth

ceadeses · 09-15-2007, 05:06 PM

I am looking to buy a welder for basic repairs to my equipment and am overwelmed by the choices available . Most of the repairs would be on stock 1/2" or less . Would prefer 110 volts but not sure if that would fill my needs. Have been told to get gas assist. No exp. but will take a course at the local comm. coll.
Thanks
Marc

CMP · 09-15-2007, 05:30 PM

I bought this one fom Thermal Dynamics. http://cgi.ebay.com/THERMAL-ARC-AM-1...QQcmdZViewItem With it, I've built 2 towers, several leaning posts, some fun chairs at home and a t-top for my B20. Great machine that can weld BIG stuff on small power. Don't let the small size fool you-these inverter machines are amazing...

CMP

ceadeses · 09-15-2007, 05:36 PM

CMP
First stupid question , will it weld steel?

CMP · 09-15-2007, 05:56 PM

Ay yuh, it sure will. I've never used mine on anything but aluminum up to 1/2" plate...

CMP

welder · 09-15-2007, 06:08 PM

Take your welding course first to be sure you want to try this.

If your going to buy a machine to work on 1/2" parent metal [ Steel ] I would get a small portable rig 20-30 HP .
It will also double as a GENERATOR , now that is a good selling point to the wife.

The smaller 110/220V machines are great for small repaires on thin material .

The gas powered units are great cuz you can take them anywhere and you have the AC power and the welder.

places to take them..................
Boat dock
Hunting camp
Farm
Work
My drive way
Everywhere....

And it's a GENERATOR.

ceadeses · 09-15-2007, 06:15 PM

What can I expect to pay for the portable unit you suggest?
By the way nice boat some day I'll have one,not big on exterior maint.

welder · 09-15-2007, 08:18 PM

Thanks for the compliment on my Pacific.

On the portable about $2400.00 new

tinmarine · 09-15-2007, 08:21 PM

Quote:

ceadeses - 9/15/2007 5:15 PM

What can I expect to pay for the portable unit you suggest?

They vary so shop around. Good place to look is Craig's list. Sometimes business' go out and sell stuff on there. Can usually find the best deal. If you buy a big machine make sure it's also a generator, not all of them are. Miller bobcat is a NICE machine!

Freezerman1 · 09-15-2007, 10:34 PM

I second Miller products, good stuff.