Newbie looking for first welder

[Jack Cox]

Hi guys my names Jack and as the title suggests I'm looking for my first welder mainly using it for repairing body work on my car (my pride and joy) as its prone to rusting and has now got a lot worse. From what i have read online i need a welder that can run low ish amps for thinner metal ? and i will be teaching myself on scrap panels until I dare attempt my car its something i have always wanted to do and I've decided i might as well have a go so any tips and machine advice would be great, don't have the biggest of budgets but try me I'm flexible

 

[Jim Davey]

Welcome Jack, you'll find this a friendly and helpful place.
What have you got in the way of tools so far? Do you need everything for metalwork or just the welder?

 

[Jack Cox]

I have basics like grinder files clamps wire brushes etc i know i need a self dimming lid some decent gloves etc just stumped by machine choice as budget is tight and car is rusting fast

 

[Kent]

you don't have to buy an auto darkening visor but they are cheap enough now anyhow and very much easier to learn with. Gas shielding all the way so do include this (not the disposables that are out of gas before you hardly get started). Something up to say 160-180 amps, sorry cant help better I am not in touch with the smaller car panel duty MIG sets

 

[Bill Edwards]

A bit of an idea on the budget would be helpful, there are a lot of options.
A cheap and not so cheerful new machine, or a used on. The really bad ones can drive you to suicide with frustration, some certainly aren't to be recommended!

A reasonable/decent new machine, or if you're patient and lucky a decent used one.
Have you factored in the price of gas? This is important for thin metal, ideally you need a mixture of argon and CO2 - have a search for 'rent free gas'.
Straight CO2 is an option, but it isn't ideal for thin bodywork. As kent says, don't waste money on disposable bottles.

 

[gordon stephenson]

Welcome Jack,you'll enjoy it here.

 

[Jack Cox]

Thanks for your advice i have found a clarke 130te local to me for£75 would this do what i need it to ?