After a certain AZ company couldnt come through with thier products,, i've decided that I need to fend for myself. So, without breaking the bank, what size mig do I need to buy to weld plain old 1"sq tubing or cage tubing? Do I really need to run out and drop a grand on a welder I might only use once or twice a year? And does it really have to be a 240v ?

 

If you have access to a Military base. The Auto hobby shop there has MIG TIG OXY/AcY and stick welders there. You can use them for a nominal fee almost free.

I'm a welder by trade and I prefer TIG welding. I have the control of the Amps, filler rods and speed . Generally TIG welds have better Penetration and look better. Others may say different but thats the style I'm best at.

 

No, you can get by just fine with a 135 or 140. I have a Northern Industrial 135 (gas ready) and can weld 3/16 in a single pass. Haven't tried 1/4, but it easily could with the right technique. I think mine was under $400 as well.

Depending on your budget, the hobart handler 140 is great.

 

I'm only planning to build a trail rack or maybe some tube doors, probably nothing bigger than .120 or so. Was looking first at HF (let the chastizing begin) since it would be a beginner setup anyway.

 

Go with the HF 90 amp welder. Screw everyone else! It gets the same job done for a fraction of the price.

 

Spend the extra 100 bucks and get the 240v 70 amp mig from HF. I have it and its treated me very well. I do a lot with 1/4" material and it gets great penetration. Great product for the money.

 

x2,spend alittle extra and get a 220v unit.The 110v unit work great for sheet metal but not hot enough for plate.

 

There's the answer I was looking for..really wasn't looking to use the 240 unless I had to but sounds like the better option. That unit comes with goodies too I believe, at least it was mentioned in the reviews that it did.

 

You don't have a clue

 

I welded some plate gussets on to my stinger and they are not sheet metal. Hmmm... It will work fine on tubing too