Sip 150 blows fuse !

[bobtheuselesselectrician]

Hi Guys. Just joined in the hope that someone can help with my problem. I have been using a sip 150 migmate (YES i realise what a total piece of CRXP it is ) very infrequently for the last 10-12 years. Used 2 days ago, suddenly the quality of the weld goes right off and then it blows the fuse. Now blows the fuse every time you pull the trigger. The higher the power setting the quicker the blow. The relay on the right hand side sparks every time it engages and the plastic cover is scorched in a spot. I really am a useless electrician so any leads or tips are a great help ! Thanks in advance. Rob.

 

[shenion]

Sounds like the diode bridge has blown. Will need a new one.

 

[malcolm]

Does sound like the rectifier as Shenion says.

Worth checking where the lead to the torch passes through the casing - they can short out there. Not sure if it would cause the same symptoms but it's easy to check.

 

[bobtheuselesselectrician]

Thanks for that guys. I will check the torch lead tomorrow. Anyone know how i check it actually is the rectifier ? Rob.

 

[shenion]

Disconnect the transformer leads from the rectifier bridge and measure resistance across each diode. Should show current only one way.

 

[bobtheuselesselectrician]

Hi. Thanks that sounds simple enough for even a dunce like me to check ! Will get to it tomorrow and post an answer. Thanks very much for the help guys! Rob.

 

[bobtheuselesselectrician]

Hi guys. Seems that everyones right the rectifier diodes are all blown and also the torch has some damage where it goes into the case. Many thanks for the help. Now all i have to do is decide whether to repair it or give it a decent burial at the tip ! Thanks again Rob.

 

[mjsroofing]

did you have any luck in fixing the problem m8