What first Tig welder?

[Shaggy33]

Hi All
I have been reading the forums with interest about peoples MIG welding experiences and equipment being used.
I think I am just about ready to drop some cash on my first welder but rather than dive in with what I think is suitable I wondered if someone would be kind enough to recommend one that suits my needs.

1. I will be a hobby welder!
2. I can see myself primarily welding mild steel and maybe some thin alloy as well. For instance I regularly drill and bend 1.5mm sheets of alloy and often whish I could weld it!
3. General thicknesses being worked on will be around 1-3mm (this will be for simply fabrication projects like brackets and other general hobby welding) although i do plan to tackle a motorbike lift project from plans which uses some 6mm box section steel. if this goes well I may end up doing other project involving this thickness. Eg bike trailer???
4. I think I am right in saying that I am better off with GAS/NO GAS welder so I have the option for both?
5. I want to run it off normal household electrics if possible
6. Budget is around £250 but would stretch to more is it becomes obvious that I am not going to get the right equipment for this budget
7. I want it to last as I plan to ultimately restore a classic car or motorbike.
Hope this is enough information, any guidance appreciated

 

[Engineer]

Very difficult to weld 1.5mm alloy with anything other than TIG or oxy/acetylene gas welding. 240v TIG set will cost considerably more than £250, so you need to work out if you want to spend more on a TIG set, which will do everything you need, or opt for a DIY type MIG set, which you can get for £250.

 

[Shaggy33]

First Welder

Thanks for reply, very good point. On the basis that it is not essential I use alloy for various applications and that it will strictly be hobby welding I think I'll stick with MIG then!
Any recommendations?

 

[Shox Dr]

I would look for a small MIG set. If you have the odd requirement to "weld" thin Aluminium, I'd use a MAPP torch and some of the Low temp Alloy rods.