GYS Smartmig 162 Or R tech Mig180 ?..

Charliefarlie · Dec 30, 2017

like many I’m wading through the vast variety of MIG welding machines.. I really want one that will run off a domestic power supply and one that will give an absolute beginner a fight chance ..

I’m looking to weld chassis rails on a racing Lawnmower ( honest ) and general jobs none of which are heavy.

I’ve read a bit on the GYS Smartmig 162 and it looks to be quite good. I’ve also looked at a similar spec Rtech Mig 180 which it seems will run of domestic supply up to 160 ...

Both machines look good. R tech are 25 miles from home if I need them and seems slightly ahead.

Question... The GYS machines come with either a yellow or blue control panel front. Am I right in thinking the blue one is newer stock ?.

Opinions most welcome. Cheers .

Cobbler · Dec 30, 2017

I've never bought or used an Rtech, but been there a couple of times for bits & pieces & found them very helpful. I understand that they have the odd shop soiled one on occasions which is like new.

cumbriasteve · Dec 30, 2017

One of our members (John) has done a four part review on the R-tech 180.

Perry Owens · Dec 30, 2017

I settled on the Mig 180 because it is switchable from Mig to arc, which I use a lot for thicker steel. When it arrived one of the Dinse plugs had a burr which stopped it fitting properly but was easily rectified with a file. When I mentioned it to Dylan at R-tech he immediately offered to send a new lead by courier. I also have one of their P50 plasma cutters which was sold as ex demo - I couldn't find a mark on it or any sign that it had ever been used.

slim_boy_fat · Dec 30, 2017

Welcome aboard, Charlie :waving:

I have the R-Tech machine and find it good - and I was a complete novice at welding when I joined up here [~~some~~ many would say I still am :ashamed:

] Their service is excellent and I recently took out the extended warranty available from them for another 2 years.

The machine will also do DC scratch-start TIG with a suitable torch + pure Argon.

Swift&Bold · Dec 30, 2017

Have you considered the CWS Bestmig?
https://www.weldingdirect.co.uk/cws...please-see-related-products-for-v2-9211-p.asp

Charliefarlie · Dec 30, 2017

SIP-Free said:
Have you considered the CWS Bestmig?
https://www.weldingdirect.co.uk/cws...please-see-related-products-for-v2-9211-p.asp

Not seen that one.... I’ve looked umpteen times at Welder’s then found this forum so thought it best to ask first. I had kinda narrowed it down to the GYS or the Rtech then since reading the replies thought yes go Rtech..

I’m semi retired now so my plan was to have a run down to Rtech and pick up everything I need to start practicing . After moving house 18 months ago and just having sorted out my workshop I’m now keen to get started.

But I will look into the CWS as I have time to do that before buying.

Guys what does the inverter big mean ?
I’m planning on a gas bottle as I’m told this is best ?

Thanks all for the replies and links. Much appreciated !!

Richiew · Dec 30, 2017

Out of the original two I would go for the R-Tech. Only four individual power settings on the GYS vs a continuously variable dial for power on the R-Tech. Even Clarke put six power settings on their equivalent offerings.

Ashley Burton · Dec 30, 2017

Both companies seem to produced good kit, But if R-Tech are close to home, Then it might be worth going that direction for backup/support.

In regards to gas bottle can't go wrong with an SGS one if not intending on being a heavy user. Adam's Gas is another supplier that does rent free when I got my first bottle.

Wightsparks · Dec 30, 2017

I did a review of my CWS 160i here
However the fact that R-Tech is just down the road from you is a strong recommender for them
http://www.mig-welding.co.uk/forum/threads/cws-best-mig-160i-unbox-first-job-and-review.71530/
The main plus with an inverter is that it comes with built in talent. For example this was the first fillet weld done by my 10yr old daughter after 20mins instruction.

slim_boy_fat · Dec 30, 2017

Wightsparks said:
However the fact that R-Tech is just down the road from you is a strong recommender for them

They might even have a demo machine for you to have a go with, failing which one of the lads there might melt something for you to see? :dontknow:

Remember, if you don't ask, you don't get.

doubleboost · Dec 30, 2017

slim_boy_fat said:
They might even have a demo machine for you to have a go with, failing which one of the lads there might melt something for you to see? Remember, if you don't ask, you don't get.

They have a new demo area with all there machines available to test (play with)