Need some help from experts. I need to purchase a welder for a few small projects, such as welding on my steel trailer and also have the potential to weld on the aluminum trailer so it has to be a MIG.

My dilemma, I don't have a need to weld more than once or twice every year so I don't want to spend a grand on a solid machine and I don't want a cheap 110 either.

I was reading reviews on the Ready Welder and it sounds great, but is it really? Can anyone give real testimony on this welder and if it can actually be used in a garage environment with a couple of batteries, or is it strictly good for trail repairs. The way I see it, it's cheap and doesn't take up much room but does the job when needed.

Any advice would be great, thanks.

 

Hobart 187, great little machine at a great price.

 

Lincoln, Hobart or Miller. Can't go wrong with any of those 3. Do a CL search and find someone selling theirs for cheap. I bought a $430 Lincoln AC Buzzbox for $150 this way.

 

I know you said your not really looking at a 110 welder but Hobart also makes the Trek 180. It has lead acids in it for the trail but can be ran on 110 in the shop. it can be ran flux core or shielded gas.

I personally have a Hobart 140 and like it. If I was going to spend any more money I would get a Tig

 

Hobart makes a good machine. I have the 230 v unit. My neighbor has the Lincoln 110 v unit. After comparing both side by side, we both agreed the Lincoln 110v unit does not weld 1/8 or thicker nearly as well as my Hobart 230v model. With welders, you can always turn down the larger welder, but you can't always get enough power out of the smaller model.

As suggested, browse Craig's List. There are some incredible deals out there for welders and plasma cutters. Be picky and be patient.

 

Good advice, thanks.