Need advise for a welder

[Streetrod77]

I said 1/2" but I have never seen anything that thick on a car. Basic car stuff will be welded. I just would like to buy one that I want need to buy a larger one later.

[im4u2nvss]

Like Jed said, the Miller 211 is great. I could not justify the cost for my needs and went with a basic, Lincoln 140. I will be doing sheet metal work, and some thin plate. For anything serious, I can tack it up, then burn it in with buddies Miller.
Also, if doing sheet metal work you will want to use gas.

[raustinss]

For a rookie with the possibility of getting a little more advanced as a fabricator my opinion get a all in one inverter Machine...Lincoln 210 MP.check it out.

[WSSix]

Check out Hobart welders. They are very similar to Miller considering Miller owns them. As a hobbyist, I couldn't justify the cost of a Miller which is typically more professional grade. I have the Hobart 140 and have done my coil over conversion and subframe connectors no problem. It will handle anything I need it to. I can even adapt it to weld aluminum using a spool gun if needed. Since you're wanting 220v, they offer machines that come ready for a spool gun should you want to weld aluminum.

What I would do is look at your budget and be very honest with yourself and what you'll be welding. You may find that a simple, quality 110v welder will handle 90% of what you'll ever do. For the thicker stuff, hiring a pro may prove cheaper in the long run.

[ilikeike]

Sign up for ZORO's email list. They have 30%off 12-24hr fire sales,and carry Miller.

[kevin_l]

I have a miller 211 also. So far I've been pleased with it.

[BBC71Nova]

Another suggestion for Miller 211 from Zoro. I recently upgraded from a Miller 175 to the 211 for no reason other than getting dual voltage and it was practically a free upgrade. I got my 211 early summer before the new inverter based 211 came out. During that time they were running a $200 machine rebate PLUS a free spool gun. Couple that with the 30% Zoro sale and selling my 175 for $550 and it was easy decision.

The dual voltage came in handy last weekend as I took it to my in laws to swap out an rv generator. I was welding 1/8" material using their 110v 30 amp rv shore power circuit. Worked like a champ. Fallback was to use their dryer plug but fortunately didn't need it.

That said, the transformer model is a heavy unit. Transporting the welder and bottle isn't really that practical so weigh that option accordingly.

If you buy new now you'll likely get the inverter model which is smaller and significantly lighter which may make portability practical.