Ferm MIG 150

[green_machine]

Hi folks,

This is my first post here on your great forum. I've been reading through the articles and there is some great info guys - thanks!!

Right - now for my newbie question, sorry for the lack of originality

I have seen a Ferm MIG 150 going for a 'potentially' reasonable price, what do you guys think of this machine? Good machine for a beginner?

I have done only a few welding jobs, with a borrowed clarke arc plant, but it is a skill i would like to get reasonably good at.

Those of you who have Land Rovers will know what i mean when i say there is always something that needs fixing or modifying!! I'm still not 100% on going MIG, a high powered Arc might be more suited to my needs but this Ferm has turned up....

Your thoughts are most welcome
Mike

 

[Robotstar5]

Hi Mike, welcome to the forum, Ferm used to be carried by Screwfix, don't know how good or bad they are.
Check it will come down to 25-30 Amps and has a few power settings, hopefully some one will be along with a bit more info for you soon.

 

[zzr1200]

Welcome green machine, I'd be inclined to pass on the Ferm if its anything like the rest of Ferms offerings (I ordered a Fermi orbital sander via Screwfix lasted all of 5 mins before the pad drive bearing seized, 5-00 quid special offer for the sander and 4 quid for a bearing to fix it...).

Keep your ears/eyes open for a Clarke machine or pm a member called "weldequip" and ask for his prices for a new machine.

hth

zzr

 

[English Steve]

I had the misfortune to borrow a Ferm once. Don't know about current offerings, but that one had a live torch - two flashes later I gave it back!

 

[madkayaker]

i think (dont quote me on this) that Ferm and wolf were one of the same or both got there welders of the same bloke in the market

 

[green_machine]

Thanks for the advice guys.
Think i'll pass on the Ferm, as you say, and hold out for something better. Still not sure whether to go for an arc plant or mig, i understand the difference in terms of operation, but could someone fill me in on some of the more subtle differences in applications?
Cheers
Mike

 

[green_machine]

oh, and thanks for the welcome!!
Mike

 

[madkayaker]

MIG is quicker and more suited to thin work cars etc. Stick is better outside and for thicker steel. Little more skill needed in stick but cheaper set up and no gas to rent etc