Subject: Re: Is this welder worth buying? by BillH on 2009/1/17 13:44:05
Quote:
CentralCoaster wrote: That $3K looks like it includes everything but gas and a mask.
Are you guys saying I should use gas regardless?
I've used flux core before and yeah chipping slag sucks, but with a little talent the weld will be as good as any.
First I've decided that I invested a bunch of money in paint guns and equipment, and I haven't used it much, so I need to put that to use before I can justify spending $500+ on a welder. I don't mind buying good shit the first time, but I gotta at least be sure I'm going to use it first!
That's the big question, how much will you use it. It's the same as buying the compressor or buying a car lift. You're just starting to accuire the "bigger ticket items" and you already have the compressor. You've got $200 to play with, what do you need the most? I can't remember, do you have an engine crane? It's like a welder, don't use it that often but when you need it, it's there.
There's nothing wrong with flux core and yes, the weld can be just as good. It's just not as convenient. I used my Lincoln for a year with flux before I bought the mig bottle.
For a $100 out of pocket, you have a welder. Get the bottle later. When you decide to build a tube chassis get the big welder. Also fot that price, you could get a used acc torch.
You're going to keep buying the big shit anyway, just a question of when and how much you'll use it.
I bought a big Atlas/Copco lathe 10 years ago with all the tooling for $300. Don't use it much but I'm damn glad I bought it.
