9outof10mms
Enginerding, good coffee, and factual opinions.
2A Bourbon Hound 2024
Supporting Member
Multi-Factor Enabled
I may be in the market for a garage/homeowner welder. Not looking to start a business with it--first project may be to weld a go-kart frame together. I know how to weld (TIG and MIG). When it comes to tools, I like to buy quality, but on items like a welder that can get expensive quickly, I need to keep it in check.
I'd prefer one that can run off of a standard 120v outlet, but if there's a signifcant advantage of having a 208/240v plug installed to run one, I'd consider it.
I know a little about service rating. A 30% rating means it can weld for 3 minutes but needs to rest for 7 minutes (in a 10-minute cycle). I presume a 20-30% rating is good enough for my garage workshop endeavors. I don't forsee welding thick (greater than 1/2") steel.
Given the infrequent use this unit will see, I'd rather not have gas bottles sitting around the garage, so that means flux-core MIG welding.
Price-wise, I'd like to be in the $500 ballpark.
Any suggestions?
I'd prefer one that can run off of a standard 120v outlet, but if there's a signifcant advantage of having a 208/240v plug installed to run one, I'd consider it.
I know a little about service rating. A 30% rating means it can weld for 3 minutes but needs to rest for 7 minutes (in a 10-minute cycle). I presume a 20-30% rating is good enough for my garage workshop endeavors. I don't forsee welding thick (greater than 1/2") steel.
Given the infrequent use this unit will see, I'd rather not have gas bottles sitting around the garage, so that means flux-core MIG welding.
Price-wise, I'd like to be in the $500 ballpark.
Any suggestions?