Hi all,
Hopefully this is in the right section as really it involves both MIG and TIG welding.
Important note: I've never used a welder.
I've been wanting to get into welding as a hobby for a long time, I've finally managed to clear a space in the garage and accumulate some funds so I'm going to dive right in. I've been reading and watching everything I can for months on end so I think I've got a good base knowledge to start with.
What I'm struggling to decide on is where to start. My long term goal is to TIG weld stainless well enough that I can make exhausts and manifolds for track car use. If I get really good I'd love to be able to produce these sorts of parts for others as a side-job.
I have the option of either buying a MIG welder to learn with, and then eventually buying another machine to do TIG in 6-12 months time, OR just jumping straight in with a TIG only machine to save the cost of a MIG setup.
At some point I'm also going to want to do some general repairs / fab work such as car arch & sill repair, and some non automotive bits such as making some furniture. Will a TIG only setup be able to cover all of these as well?
My question in one line: Is it possible for a total newbie to start with TIG and learn efficiently? As opposed to learning MIG first? Has anyone done this before?
Be gentle... Cheers!
Hopefully this is in the right section as really it involves both MIG and TIG welding.
Important note: I've never used a welder.
I've been wanting to get into welding as a hobby for a long time, I've finally managed to clear a space in the garage and accumulate some funds so I'm going to dive right in. I've been reading and watching everything I can for months on end so I think I've got a good base knowledge to start with.
What I'm struggling to decide on is where to start. My long term goal is to TIG weld stainless well enough that I can make exhausts and manifolds for track car use. If I get really good I'd love to be able to produce these sorts of parts for others as a side-job.
I have the option of either buying a MIG welder to learn with, and then eventually buying another machine to do TIG in 6-12 months time, OR just jumping straight in with a TIG only machine to save the cost of a MIG setup.
At some point I'm also going to want to do some general repairs / fab work such as car arch & sill repair, and some non automotive bits such as making some furniture. Will a TIG only setup be able to cover all of these as well?
My question in one line: Is it possible for a total newbie to start with TIG and learn efficiently? As opposed to learning MIG first? Has anyone done this before?
Be gentle... Cheers!