Clarke 180en Opinions...

[Jason280]

I've been welding for about a year now, and I recently decided to go with a higher amperage MIG welder for various projects. I currently have a Lincoln ProMig 140, a Hobart 125ez, and a Lincoln Invertech v250-S DC Tig/Stick machine. I've been looking at getting a Hobart Handler 187 or a Lincoln ProMig 175/180, but came across a deal on a Clarke 180en I couldn't pass up.

Anyone have experience with this class welder, or any Clarke for that matter? The opinions of Clarke welders on this side of the pond are generally mixed, but I see they are popular in Europe. Should I expect this welder to be on par with my Hobart and Lincoln? Any bad experiences with the Clarke line? Thanks!

 

[sweetsdime00]

well i have one and i love it so yea it works for me

 

[shenion]

The Clarke's are good machines. Definitely not as good as the Lincoln.

They have a plastic wire feed. They work fine but are not as heavy duty as the Miller/Lincoln feeders. The duty cycle will be a bit low at the top end: 20% at 180A.

Should be about the same as your Hobart.

I have the 130EN and it has worked well. Have run it flat out and it never cut out. Wire feed has been good and even did aluminum wire fine.

These are nice units. Inexpensive and reliable. If you can get a 180 for a real good price, I would go for it.

 

[weldequip]

The Lincoln/Miller/Hobart machines are definately a much nicer quality unit, although that's reflected in the price. Hobart re-badge a Clarke machine in the UK, but the US models are the genuine Hobart, as far as I'm aware.
weldequip

 

[Jason280]

Thanks for the replies. I am getting the 180en for around $225 USD, which is almost half what they sell for new here in the states. I figure I can always get my money back out of it in case I am not happy with it, but I have a feeling it will satisfy my needs.

I think the first thing I am going to do is run a longer work clamp/ground cable. The specs show basically a 6' ground cable, but I plan on extending it to at least 10' or so.

Shenion, I noticed you are also from Georgia. Small world, huh?? I am located outside of Milledgeville, which is 45 minutes northeast of Macon.

 

[shenion]

Yes, small world Hmm, $225 is about what I'm selling my 130EN with a cart.

New, the 180's w/reg are about $365 + shipping.

Yes a longer ground would be nice. I replaced the clamp witha Lenco-stle solid brass clamp. The one that comes with it works fine, but does not clamp real hard on thin metal.

Note: Home Depot carries the tips for the Hobart welders they carry. They are the same tip. 10 for $9.