Just what you want, another what welder post..!

[Mow2512]

Hello members, new boy here with the original newb question of which welder.

I've read quite a few posts and swayed back and forth with welder choices, but from your reviews it appears a Clarke welder would be a good first buy.

I'm looking for a welder suitable for car repairs and small scale hobby fabrication and have short listed the 135te and 151te models as suitable.
Bit confused by Clarke though as you then find the 150te which appears identical spec and price but blue?

So would you agree with my choices, have I missed some models worth considering (gys smart mig from weldequip?) and are there any that will save me money in the long term that include upgrades I'm likely to need, torch, regulator, etc?

Thanks for your wisdom in advance

Mow

 

[Mow2512]

Forgot to ask, how would these compare to a secondhand Sealey mighty mig 130xt that's local to me on eBay and any idea of its value as a used welder?

Thanks again

Mow

 

[armalites]

As with all things it all comes down to how much you can or want to spend and if this is going to be an ongoing hobby.

I would buy the very best you can. I did that with my first welder and I am still using it now 13 years later.

The problem then is you could be jumping from £200 to £600 but if that means never buying another then is will be money well spent.

If I was looking now I would be looking at Portamig most likely, UK built with good back up and current down as low as 15A.

 

[Mow2512]

Thanks, think I'm looking at 300-450 depending on spec, portamig seem to start at around 600, a bit much for a first welder i think.

 

[armalites]

Here's a link to the page.

They are built to order and have a 2 year warranty

http://www.weldequip.com/portamig-mig-welders.htm

Only problem is you will be talking £700 for the 185 and the 215 is £80 more.

There are custom options too.

I don't have one, I have a Migatronic but if I was replacing mine today I think I would probably get a Portamig

 

[kelsham]

I originally bought a SIP migmate, I blamed the poor results on my technique.

About fifteen years later I came into some unexpected cash.( All cash is unexpected and a novelty).

I bought a Clarke 175 te and was amazed at the improvement in my welding.

I occasionally lust after a Portamig but as I have been retired for some time it would probably only be needed for a short time.

Clark welders get good reviews on this site.

Regards kels.

 

[cumbriasteve]

I have owned both a Clarke 135 and a Portamig, both excellent machines.

The Clarke is very capable, produces nice welds and good for up to 5mm with the right preparation, many survive years of abuse and still work well when they look fit for the skip.

The Portamig is simply excellent and more of a professional machine, heavier duty, euro torch and built to last.

Considering finances the Clarke would win for occasional hobby use, the Portamig would win for long term and if the hobby became busier.

 

[cumbriasteve]

Only problem is you will be talking £700 for the 185 and the 215 is £80 more.

£588 for the 185

 

[armalites]

£588 for the 185

I've just looked again and you right, I saw the (inc vat) and assumed it said plus VAT.

So £588 is even more of a bargain.

 

[Mow2512]

Thanks for the tips but i think the Clarke is the on budget option for now, giving enough time for the porta mig to go on the Christmas list...