Info on welders needed., need to buy a welder. Options

[914_1.8t]

I no longer have access to a welder as my welding guy sold his, and my project is dead in the water w/o a welder. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/sad.gif)

So i'm thinking about buying one and saw this at Harbor Freight:
http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/disp...Itemnumber=6098

I don't know too much about welders (IMG:style_emoticons/default/confused24.gif) :
1) What is difference between MIG/TIG/ARC?
2) What's better/easier to use, GAS or Electric or it possible to use a conbo of both?

Any feedback appreciated.

[914GT]

For auto body work I'd go with gas MIG. I don't know about the HF unit but make sure you can get the gas kit, usually runs about $100 for the regulator and different liner for the cable for non-flux wire. Tank is also extra, check your welding supply shop for prices. I don't like flux wire for car work. Gas cleaner and easier, lets you weld thinner metal. Use Argon-C02 mix or straight CO2. Latter is cheaper and deeper penetration, but argon mix best for thin gauge steel. Get a 230V unit, for 115V you have to be careful with line voltage drop at higher currents. Get the big wire spool upgrade. The small spools get used up too quick. I have both MIG and oxy-acet. I use the MIG a lot more, but gas welding/brazing does come in handy.

Before you buy the HF thing I'd go check prices at your local welding supply shop first.

TIG is best for aluminum, stainless. Not for general autobody work. Harder to use. Arc is the old stick welders. Great for heavy duty welding of pipe, chassis, heavy gauge stuff. You need a real big MIG to do that work.