Are clarke machines any good

[peter1954]

I am brand new to welding and would like to learn to MIG weld. I have been looking at the Clarke welders around 150 amps semi pro. What I need to know is are they any good. What do you experienced welders recommend as a good starting kit please

 

[shenion]

Welcome to the forums

If you did any searching of the forums you would see they are recommended for DIY use by many members. No real complaints.

I had a Clarke 130EN and it worked well. Check out weldeqips shop through th elink at the top of the page. He carries Clarke.

 

[chunkolini]

Welcome aboard Peter.
This is the place for quality support in the mad world of metal bothering.
It might be worth putting a post in the intro's section explaining what you are doing.

I had a 130amp clarke welder, it was a great intro to a new skill.
They seem to be the definitive starter machine.
When starting out I think it important to have a welder that works well, I had a mate who had a dodgy welder and thought it was his lack of technique. He had a go with mine as was surprised that it does just what it should.
The 150amp model would be a great starter machine, enough power for serious work and works well at lower power for body and sheet metal work as well.

Chunko'

 

[Chickenjohn]

I've had a Clarke 150TE and used it a lot for years. It is a great little machine!

 

[philsmin]

had a 90en for about 10 years, can't fault it

Just replaced it with a secondhand 150TE so I can do thicker stuff

 

[Engineer]

Newcomers to welding may well find things a great deal easier with a used pro standard MIG set with copper windings, which can often be found for the same type of money as a new Chinese DIY type set.

 

[Chickenjohn]

I don't think the Clarkes are made in china. Certainly not mine!

 

[Miguel Dare]

While I'm not completely new to welding, I hadn't welded for over 20 years until I bought my Clarke 160TM (on the recommendations from this forum).

Cracking machine - well built, decent torch, stable arc, good quality welds (even in my relatively inexperienced hands), good duty cycle and great value.

Could do with a better earth clamp and lead (easily & cheaply sorted) but happy to recommend it to anyone.

 

[reno]

No complaints here from another clarke user. Decent bit of kit for learning on.

As far as I know all current clarke mig's are made in Europe - Italy I believe. A few of their starter tig sets are made in PRC but they state this in their catalogue.

 

[Chickenjohn]

Yes, the Mig sets are made in Italy. Ideal for welding Fiats! ;-)

 

[Robotstar5]

Another vote for Clarke from a 150TE owner

 

[peter1954]

Many thanks to all you welders out there. You have made my mind up for me.

I'll let you all know how I get on

Great site