A good 110/115v MIG welder

[civilwarblacksmith]

I've been using a weldpak 100 from lincoln that is a 110/115 using 20 amp breaker. They have upgraded this unit to the lincoln 140. It will run both flux core or gas shield by reversing polarity. I run the flux core, just because of the convience of it.

Most of what I weld is 1/4" but have welded thicker with multiple beads.

[driberif85]

Go with the Lincoln with infinite adjustments. I have used and abused these little 110 Lincoln welders and they never cease to amaze me with their abilities. Remember that what they are rated for is single pass weld. If you want to do multi pass welds you can weld thicker material. I recommend the Lincoln because in my opinion the have a smother arc and therefore less weld splatter.

[TarAlderion]

Thanks for that info Dave, thats exactly what I wanted to know. I knew that Hobart was being built by Miller, and that some of their units are the same, but what you stated confirms my reservations toward the little Hobart. The Hobarts are a bit cheaper, but that is usually for a reason. I don't want to have to spend $600-$700 on a new Lincoln or Miller, but would rather spend more for a machine that will hold up better and perform better. There is no rush to get the welder immediately, so I am going to keep my eyes open for a used Lincoln or Miller that might be had at a better price.

And thanks to everyone for you inputs, definately helped the decision making easier.

Graham

[nfinch86]

Yes Lincoln is the Best in my opinion.I own the 140-T Great Machine! PS. I've been Welding 40+Yrs. & allways used Lincoln Machines . Norm :

[ChrisB]

The 110v Lincolns are made in Italy. The Hobart and Millers are made in the US. I bought a hobart about 4 mos ago and had a setup question within 30 seconds of me dialing their number I was speaking to real person and had my answer 30 seconds after that.

Hobart has an excellent forum that is watched by the factory. You can find it on the front page of the hobart website.

Support after the purchase is a big thing to consider. Stop in the local welding shop and figure whose repair parts they stock. I'm in Miller/Hobart land here buying a Lincoln would mean a 3hr round trip if something broke vs. 5 miles to the local weld shop that stocks Miller and Hobart common failure parts.

Esab makes a nice unit too. They are assembled in South Carolina. I dont know if they make a 110 unit.

I would think hard about getting your shop wired for 220v.

[Dragons lair]

Latest thing out there is from northern tool. 115volt Tig Mig and Stick all in one. 140 amp priced at $499.00

[KYBOY]

I have a Lincoln 140 at home..The reason I bought it was because I have put several hundred hours on one at the prison working outside(fences etc..). They are a real little welder and will weld good size material if you know what you are doing..I use .30 flux core most of the time as it burns very hot and I use it outside a lot..Miller makes a good small welder too..

[burd]

hobart 187 for mig and the Miller Dynasty 200 DX for stick and tig for me