Hey all,
I've got a really old MIG I picked up in Germany many years ago. It's pretty solid and was reliable until I noticed my shielding gas was practically absent. The bottle is full (new), the regulator was good but swapped to a known good unit, I check the line between the regulator and the welder and it's clear, but still, no gas.
I tear into it and it's pretty basic inside. I quickly locate the gas solenoid, take it out, power check it and it seems OK, it buzzes and seems to be running when power applied. I take it apart and all seems free and clear so no issues there. I put it back together, test it again, put it back in the welder and it's still not getting any gas out of the solenoid. I don't feel any pressure or suction on the appropriate sides.
The unit is a 220v Elektra-Beckum MIG/MAG 120/20 from around 1988. I've attached pictures of the unit and the solenoid for reference. The only writing on the solenoid itself is 220v 7w 50/60 Hz T60. I checked online and parts manual are non-existent.
Just looking for ideas, suggestions, and advice before I go on eBay/Amazon dropping $20-30 a shot on 220v solenoids with no clue as to what's what or anything aside from it saying 220 gas solenoid and hoping it works. Maybe it's that simple but while I'm good with a lot of things, this is the first welder I've had to tackle.
I know it's an old welder. I know they stopped making them. I know it's not top of the line in terms of power or capabilities but it seems a shame to trash it over a $30 part.
If anyone has had similar issues on a welder, knows where I can score one from a reputable vendor, or has any input, I'd be interested in hearing from you.
Thanks
TJ
I've got a really old MIG I picked up in Germany many years ago. It's pretty solid and was reliable until I noticed my shielding gas was practically absent. The bottle is full (new), the regulator was good but swapped to a known good unit, I check the line between the regulator and the welder and it's clear, but still, no gas.
I tear into it and it's pretty basic inside. I quickly locate the gas solenoid, take it out, power check it and it seems OK, it buzzes and seems to be running when power applied. I take it apart and all seems free and clear so no issues there. I put it back together, test it again, put it back in the welder and it's still not getting any gas out of the solenoid. I don't feel any pressure or suction on the appropriate sides.
The unit is a 220v Elektra-Beckum MIG/MAG 120/20 from around 1988. I've attached pictures of the unit and the solenoid for reference. The only writing on the solenoid itself is 220v 7w 50/60 Hz T60. I checked online and parts manual are non-existent.
Just looking for ideas, suggestions, and advice before I go on eBay/Amazon dropping $20-30 a shot on 220v solenoids with no clue as to what's what or anything aside from it saying 220 gas solenoid and hoping it works. Maybe it's that simple but while I'm good with a lot of things, this is the first welder I've had to tackle.
I know it's an old welder. I know they stopped making them. I know it's not top of the line in terms of power or capabilities but it seems a shame to trash it over a $30 part.
If anyone has had similar issues on a welder, knows where I can score one from a reputable vendor, or has any input, I'd be interested in hearing from you.
Thanks
TJ