ESAB buddy tig 160

[adamsmitqc]

Hi all, anyone have an opinion of the ESAB entry level tig, the buddy 160?

retails at around £430, im after a TIG but dont want to crazy and spend a fortune. Other options are the TEC-ARC 186i and the R-Tech 160 or 200??

 

[FranV8]

I'd go for the Rtech, it's got several more features than the Esab, and comes with a few more bits to get you going. Only thing is the DC 160 I don't think allows you to connect a pedal.

Technical Arc may be similar for features, I've not looked.

 

[wyn]

I have a buddy tig 160 as a back up for my other tig. I have used it for a couple of days on cds tubing and it was pretty good.
I did change the standard torch for a wp9 type to get into awkward places.

It seems ok for the money.

 

[adamsmitqc]

Wyn, Would you think it would be a good first machine for myself, i have some TIG experiance, basically just getting a go at work when the welders have some graft on in the workshop at work? its for home use, various projects on the go, have a mig already but now want to delve into TIG

 

[wyn]

It seems fine...easy to use...hf start. The fan does run constantly so not that quiet.

I was using it for a couple of hours at a time with no problems.

I got mine from wellington welding and it came with leads and a torch etc ready to go.

 

[chevy2]

Just looked at the spec, says it has an internal gas valve but no external knob to adjust the post flow? preset?

 

[wyn]

Just looked at the spec, says it has an internal gas valve but no external knob to adjust the post flow? preset?

I don't think it has anything to adjust gas flow timings.
I suppose setting it with a long down slope will give more post flow.