Clarke MIG230TEC or something else?

[vikingjohn]

I got my machine mart vat free voucher and been considering this welder.
I'm not an experienced welder, but I have many uses I can put one to.
The Clarke range seem popular here but i don't know enough to make a really informed choice.
How thin I can go is probably going to be more use than how thick.
I have a car restoration project and i would at some point like to try welding aluminium.
I've looked at the weldequip link and their portamig goes down to 15 amps.
The smalest one is more expensive than the clarke but I'd rather buy a good welder for my needs than buy twice
Any input much apreciated

 

[cumbriasteve]

You have answered your own question and it's not just the lower amps, it's a different class of machine altogether.

 

[cumbriasteve]

Should mention though..Aluminium is another field altogether.

 

[shenion]

The Clarke's above 180A are overpriced. The PortaMIG will run circles around them and is cheaper.

If you get a PortaMIG get a short torch if you plan on doing aluminum. One of the few advantages of the Clarkes is the 6' torch makes feeding soft aluminum wire easier.