QUOTE(seanpaulmc @ Feb 1 2017, 03:49 PM)
About that welder, is there advice for a recommended welder for a novice on here? Likewise, on what to stay away from?
I started down the path of welding just over a year ago. If you plan to do any body panels, you may benefit from learning TIG. Plenty of people are successful with MIG, but I think you'll find it offers less control and introduces more heat distortion on body panels.
I ended up buying the
Lincoln POWER MIG 140 Multi-Process. I’ve been very happy with it so far. You can do TIG, MIG, or stick. Runs off 110 which is convenient. It is pretty compact. I put it on a cheap Harbor Freight cart and it has been fine. I have only used it for TIG of 18-20 gauge sheet metal so far. There are two key drawbacks, but neither would stop me from buying this one again:
1. Volt / Amp control doesn’t allow you to select a value. It’s a letter system that take a little trial and error. But once you know, you know. You will spend at least another $500 to get a Lincoln model that offers precise readout.
2. It is lift start. You get used to it. High Frequency start would be ideal. Again more $$$.
I did online classes first. Tom Perazzo who is pretty well known for his Garage Time YouTube channel has a
very good TIG video class. Also, master metal shaper
Ron Covell has MIG and TIG videos. Beyond being good teachers, they are swell people. And don't rule out YouTube.
Ray Schelin has a wealth of knowledge he shares for free from ProShaper.
Then took three hands on classes. Starting with a MIG class at my local maker space. You may also be able to find classes at a junior college too.
Ultimately, practice, practices, practice.