choosing a mig welder

[70gs455]

hello out there ,
I am restoring a 1970 buick gs the body is off the frame and I realized there are a few spots on the frame that need to be patched up. After calling around body shops for estimates I think I will try to weld it myself. Here lies my problem, I am very handy but mig welder choices are too many and I am not sure which one to purchase I am going to weld the frame and also install 2 rear quarter panels so I need some advice on what would be the best welder for me 110v? 220v? what options should i look for? My garage only has a 60 amp service dont know if that would be an issue. thanks alfredo

 

[shenion]

110V would give you 130 or 140 amps. 220V is needed for more. 130A will do 1/8" so should be enough for a frame. Make sure the welder is capable to do gas MIG welding. Gasless is too hot for bodywork.

Hobart, Miller, Lincoln Electric are respected names. Century is also good (now owned by Lincoln.)

Clarke's are good but the supply chain has gone chapter 11. A lot of them are being dumped on ebay. I had a Clarke 130EN and it worked well.

If you go with a 110V, you will need a dedicated 20A outlet. Extension cords must be 12ga or larger and as short as possible.

You will also need gas, argon/CO2 mix (75/25%). Look for a local supplier, Linde, Air Products or BOC (all the same now.) Buy the cylinder and you will not need rental (they will try to do a rental contract, it is not required.)

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