Worth paying/waiting for a quality welder?

[DuncanM]

Went to see a local supplier who will deliver and demonstrate (and can repair stuff too). They can order from TecArc (or Esab or Kemppi) but the local touch costs a little more, so the inverters are a bit too much. I'm inclined to go with them and get a TecArc - that way I'll have some support.
We'll see...
I'll keep you informed!
Cheers
Duncan

 

[Ragnarok]

if it's good repair/after sales service you want (the reason you're looking at local?) esab do free onsite warranty repair for 2 years my tig had a minor software glitch, i called esab they sent a guy out, he up dated the software, and all is good didn't have to take it anywhere or even move the machine great service i got the machine online btw don't think buying an esab local will help with after sales/repair.

 

[Simon-]

Ive ordered a new Portamig 215. I have also never used a Mig before, although I plan on learning......quickly (hopefully) This is for hobby/recreation and possibly nixer if I can get my head around it... Im probably nuts...haha

To the point.......

My point would be. A lot of people can blame tools when something doesn't work out for them. With a welder, the welding will be a new experience for me ,and in order for me to rule out the equipment. I have chosen to purchase the best mig (IMO) that I can afford.
This is not to say that I will be able to set it up correctly upon receipt. I accept it will take time and practice to get up to speed. At least I will be fairly certain that any flaws are down to me and not with the equipment. Theres probably plenty of other good machines on the market.
Also I have a qualified welder mate to help me set it up

So my advise to anybody buying any such equipment is to buy the best that you can afford...


hmmmm Dc Tig have to win the lottery first though

 

[Wozzaaah]

Cable cutter posts are now here.

 

[DuncanM]

Thread resurrection!

I am getting my new welder tomorrow. Unfortunately we had to spend money on fixing the roof of the house, so the high end ones were not possible. So the machine arriving tomorrow is a Murex Tradesmig 165. It's a secondhand machine from the welding supplier, with various bits replaced (liner, earth lead, rectifier, torch switch, swann neck). Also comes with a regulator, some consumables and some 0.8mm wire.

I got to play with it today. It's really cool. It is very heavy, and rather large as well, but it will fit in the garage (just). Won't be moving it around much!

Am I being overly optomistic thinking that practising on 1.6mm thick steel would be OK, or is that a bit thin?
Cheers
Duncan

 

[Country Joe]

Am I being overly optomistic thinking that practising on 1.6mm thick steel would be OK, or is that a bit thin?

It'll be fine!
CJ

 

[DuncanM]

Pictures:

It only just fitted through the gap between the car and the garage door after I took one of the sides off!