OBVIOUS need for a REAL TIG welder

[BONDOMAN]

I realize I probably should have never gone there, but I bought a Harbor Freight TIG. I have been MIG welding as a hobby for 10 years, but knew that I wanted a TIG. For $400. I thought I'd give it a try. I find that I LOVE TIG welding. However I also realize that I need a REAL TIG welder. The HF one does not even have AC. Since this is not my profession, but I DO like quality items I was thinking about a Miller Diversion 180. Does anyone have an opinion on this machine? It will cost me around $1,800. If there will be a "World of difference" that is obvious in 10 minutes use then I will be happy. If I am mainly spending my money on a brand name then I need to know that also. I am open to any and all suggestions. Note: I will weld, normally, up to 1/4" mild steel most of the time. Hoping for some newby advice from the Experts.

 

[shenion]

On DC there will not be much difference. More features though. If it does AC then that gives you the ability to do aluminum.

$1800 is a lot to spend for a hobby. For aluminum, I'd prefer a footpedal and that will add considerably more.

You might look at a used TIG off of Craigs list or ebay (search by distance.) My Airco was just a few hundred. I have seen Dynasty's for under $1k.

You will a need 220V power outlet for any decent welder.

 

[piman]

Hello Bondoman,

as I don't know the machine your refer to I can't give a sensible answer.

However, apart from the desire to use a TIG machine, I don't feel that is the ideal type of welder for what you normally work on? Most of my TIG work is on 1 to 2mm thick stainless steel, for mild steel of similar thickness, I'll use oxy/acetylene and thicker it's always arc. (I don't own a MIG and don't feel the need for the amount of work I do)

Alec