cberman

Need some opinions on what to get. First welder so not looking for anything real fancy. I;d like to be able to weld up some manifolds for myself, downpipes, maybe traction bars, etc (i certainly dont care how the welds will look as long as they are functional)

the welders ive been looking at
Some reconditioned Hobarts (they are real cheap.)
http://www.toolking.com/category.aspx?categoryID=323
$300 for 125
$350 for 135
$390 for 140
$400 for 175

Also looking at the Lincoln SP-135T which is a bit more expensive

Obviously i want to spend the least amount possible, but also want a welder that will suit my needs

Heath

I've welded a lot with a lincoln 135 but it was all flux core. I would say that no matter which one you get I wouldn't settle for less than 135 amps.
I've used a little harbor freight 85 amp for many things but they simpley can't penetrate enough for manifold applications. They work good for exhaust and intercooler piping though.
Best of luck!

90dx

Get the biggest you can afford.

SpankedYA!

I have a lincoln sp135 and its a great little machine. Only good up to 1/4 but its all I use. well worth the $500 I paid!

cberman

Well i can get the lincoln referbished with full factory warranty for $436.

When you say its only good for up to 1/4", does that mean welding tubing to 1/4" flange or welding two 1/4" flanges together?

Engloid

I'd reccomend the Hobart over the Lincoln. I'd also reccomend, as posted above, that you get the biggest you can afford. You will soon realize that it's money well spent. You will not regret it.

sohcpwr

my buddy rocks the Hobart 135. Awesome little machine. I swear you'd think he was welding with gas. Little to no spatter and straight bead, nothing at all like the HF jobs. It also lets you touch the material with the wire and doesnt start an arc untill you hit the trigger. Im sure most good welders do that but im just used to the cheap *** HF. Hobart FTW. At least you know your not paying for the name

Loserkidwac

I'm rocking a Hobart 180 and couldn't be happier but I split it with my pops and it was kind of pricy

cberman

Well, 115V would be really convienent, so maybe the hobart 140?

the price differences dont really bother me, however wiring up 220 would be a pain in the *** if the difference isnt gonna be that big

also, is the hobart a better welder or is it recommended beacause of the price difference? the lincoln comes with some supplies (mask i think and regulator) so it evens the prices out a bit

Slo_crx1

I've got a Lincoln 3200HD and I absolutely love it. On the highest amperage setting I can get good consistent penetration on steel up to 3/8", and I've tried 1/2" but it's way too iffy...but that's usually arc terroritory anyway