Mig Upgrade?

[captain scarlet]

Hello peeps.
Just wondering if anyone can answer this question?
Is it possible to upgrade the power of a mig set by changing the transformer.
For example: Spares or repair 160amp Mig Set, remove transformer & fit into a working Clarke 100E Mk2 = a Clarke 160E Mk2 in theory?...
Before anyone asks, I can't afford a new Clarke 160 TE, I did have one untill a person or person's of questionable parentage relieved me of it along with most of my other stuff but hey-ho.
I got this stuff lying around & was just wondering, anyone got any ideas?

Steve.

 

[matt1978]

Hi Mate,

I am not electrically minded, but in theory I don't see why not, apart from the voltage selection switches used on the Clarke 100, wouldn't give much fine selection (too few steps) on the 160 amp transformer, so your settings would be a bit hit and miss

 

[malcolm]

I couldn't think of a reason either. You'd probably need to use the rectifier too as it might be higher rated in the bigger welder (though it's possible all the Clarkes had the same rectifier so that might not be an issue).

Might find there aren't enough power switches on the Clarke. Maybe fit another from the 160 welder.

 

[Wozzaaah]

That sounds like a great idea, I reckon you could start a trend off if it works. You just have to hope that you don't destroy the 100e in the process so be careful and ask lots of questions, plenty of electronics people on here to help you if you get stuck .
Best of luck building 'Frankenwelder' let us know what happens.

 

[shenion]

Where would you get a transformer?

Buy as a spare would probably cost you near as much as a new unit.

If you get a used 160, then you would probably want to fix it up (possibly parts from the 100.)

 

[captain scarlet]

Hi guy's.

Thanks a million for your prompt replies, this truly is an awesome site for anything to do with welding.
I have actually, this very afternoon traded my 100e for an Oxford Mig 161, I have no idea how old it is or anything else about it?
It does however weld beautifully, lovely & crisp just like it should be, my clarke has been a good set for the last 8yrs or more, just a little lacking in power.

Thanks again
Steve...

 

[gavuk]

sounds like a good trade to me.....

 

[weldequip]

Only trouble being Oxford went bust a long time ago, so spares could be difficult to obtain. A particular weak point on that model was Rectifier Diodes which used to keep failing, although they were not the press-fit type so easy to replace without changing the full Rectifier, and obtainable from other sources. Decent little set though & I reckon a fair swap
weldequip