Quote:
Originally Posted by BrettRS
Do you have suggestions for a budget modern MIG welder I could learn on? Are MIG welders 240v?
I'm working on getting a pole barn up out on my lot where the pigs are, so I'll be able to set-up a welder there. Garage is too tight at home for any more big equipment. I can wire in 240v outlet or whatever is needed for a MIG when I build the barn.
I've got decades of soldering experience, I own a small tech manufacturing business and I started by building all of the wiring harnesses for the company that I now own. Never touched a welder though, always stood on the sidelines and watched others whenever I needed anything. I'm sure I could learn on YT and with practice...
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Most of the better ones are convertible between 120 and 240; for 1960's sheet metal and unibody work my 120V Miller didn't have a problem. Miller and Lincoln are both great (and have fanatics that insist one is better than the other).
MIG is "Metal Inert Gas" which combines a motorized wire feed and an inert gas shield as you are welding. Literally hook up the ground wire and pull the trigger (with the obvious safety precautions like gloves, long sleeve shirt, and welding mask). With a little practice (and good cleaning of the material), anyone can produce beautiful "stacked dime" welds...
I taught both my older sons to weld by having them write their names on scrap fenders with the welder.
The reason I suggest staying with Miller/Lincoln is that if anything goes wrong, you can find parts/repair them. I am sure a harbor freight unit would work for a while... but good luck if anything breaks.