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Cheap doesn't really work when looking for a welder. The rule of thumb, is buy as big of a welder as you can possibly afford. I knew I wasn't going to be welding much over 1/4" for a long while in my 4x4 career, and although the ability to weld thicker is always better, I settled on a welder rated for 5/16 since at the time I couldn't afford much more anyway. That way, I also feel more confident that it can do 1/4 and I'm not pushing the machines capabilities if that makes sense. I also figured, its going to be my entry level welder. Once/if I need to go bigger, I can always sell this one to upsize, or just keep it as a backup for small jobs and what not.I also knew I wanted something 220, and something that came with the ability to run gas. I knew I didn't need a spool gun anytime soon (front panel trigger switch plug not needed), and the infinite voltage settings of the Miller would be lost upon me, so ultimately I settled on a Hobart 187 (which is made by Miller anyway). I'm very happy with it, and for the price I got it at (less than $550 shipped new), it was a GREAT decision. Make sure you shop around for prices when you decide on a unit. Good luck with your quest!http://www.hobartwelders.com/products/wirefeed/handler187/~T.J.
Cheap doesn't really work when looking for a welder. The rule of thumb, is buy as big of a welder as you can possibly afford. I knew I wasn't going to be welding much over 1/4" for a long while in my 4x4 career, and although the ability to weld thicker is always better, I settled on a welder rated for 5/16 since at the time I couldn't afford much more anyway. That way, I also feel more confident that it can do 1/4 and I'm not pushing the machines capabilities if that makes sense. I also figured, its going to be my entry level welder. Once/if I need to go bigger, I can always sell this one to upsize, or just keep it as a backup for small jobs and what not.
I also knew I wanted something 220, and something that came with the ability to run gas. I knew I didn't need a spool gun anytime soon (front panel trigger switch plug not needed), and the infinite voltage settings of the Miller would be lost upon me, so ultimately I settled on a Hobart 187 (which is made by Miller anyway). I'm very happy with it, and for the price I got it at (less than $550 shipped new), it was a GREAT decision. Make sure you shop around for prices when you decide on a unit. Good luck with your quest!
http://www.hobartwelders.com/products/wirefeed/handler187/
~T.J.