Welders: If you had to choose one...? Options

[Danny_Ocean]

I have yet to learn to weld. I would like to purchase (and learn on) a welder that will be most useful to the average "car guy"...welding sheetmetal, repairing broken mounts, adding brackets to rollbars/frames, etc. Nothing exotic, just basic repairs for the average mechanic. My shop has 220v if that matters. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/welder.gif)

[Danny_Ocean]

I won't be exceeding my limitations. If there is something that calls for a professional welder, I'll gladly pay someone. I just have a dozen "little" things that need welding...jobs that a welder wouldn't want to be bothered with (or would charge too much to be economically feasible).

So...115v MIG sounds like the deal, yes?

[Spoke]

So...115v MIG sounds like the deal, yes?

Yep, it works well for me. I was hesitant to get a 115V welder but the guys here said I didn't need it for 914 work. After 2 years, I wholeheartedly agree. Fenders, swaybar mounts, trunk floor, suspension console, BMW muffler, VW muffler, and many other items, no problem with 115v.

Plus it can be used anywhere there's a good 115v supply. (that is, not an extension cord or long high gauge wire, etc.)

Spoke

[Danny_Ocean]

Yep, it works well for me. I was hesitant to get a 115V welder but the guys here said I didn't need it for 914 work. After 2 years, I wholeheartedly agree. Fenders, swaybar mounts, trunk floor, suspension console, BMW muffler, VW muffler, and many other items, no problem with 115v.

I have other cars ('74 T/A, '74 Corvette, '74 Pantera, '85 F350) that need welding, too (shock mount brackets, etc.). These cars have heavier frames/chassis Heavier car = heavier guage steel.

Let's put it this way: What CAN'T I weld with 115v?