Automotive

[Benvan13]

In my welding class, the teacher said we will be learning on 18-22 guage. Typically, what's the max thickness of the metal you think I would be working on with cars?
What are a few mig welders that are preferred and the pros an cons of said welders compared to each other?

Thanks guys!

 

[Lawnmowerboy]

Well you would probarbly find nothuing thicker than 2.5mm on chassis so about a clarke 150 type thing would be ideal but always nice to have a bit extra power!

 

[Benvan13]

Thanks for your input. I'll do some research on that welder

 

[Benvan13]

I also just realized this is a euro forum correct? Are most welders available internationally? When I searched that Clark welder the price came up in euros an I'm in the U.S.

 

[zx9]

There are quite a few members from your side of the pond, I am sure they will be along soon.

 

[Benvan13]

Thanks zx9.

 

[andy m]

F w i w I am at a night class also. Last week I had a go with an R tech. Went from 8mm plate down to car shell thickness steel, 3mm?? after adjusting the dials it worked well, I welded the 3 to the 8 also. Not a big deal to the skilled on here but it was a quick lesson for me.

 

[pedrobedro]

You are in US. You have two of the best there, Miller and Lincoln.

 

[Benvan13]

Thanks guys I appreciate the responses

 

[shenion]

Clark US went chapter 11 several years ago. You still see some on ebay but most are their Chinese models.

Hobart, Miller, Lincoln and HTP are the good ones.

Northern tools has their own line (Chinese) that seem to be ok. Harbor Freight has cheap ones.

A lot depends on your budget.

Do not get a gasless one, they are real cheap. You want one that can do 30-130 amps for body and chassis work. Anything higher power will require a 220V outlet.

Gas is cheap once you buy the bottle.

 

[Benvan13]

Oh ok but up to 130 I can just plug in the wall correct?

 

[shenion]

At 130A a MIG will draw near 20 amps. It likely will need to be a dedicated socket.

When doing thinner stuff, it will work fine on most circuits.

If your breaker panel is in the garage, then adding a dedicated 120 or 240V outlet is no big deal.