I had a Lincoln 140 Package from
Mart.com. I had NEVER welded before and went from no knowledge to being able to add panels, fab, etc. in just a few months time. My welder came with a DVD that saved my ass - showed me how to load wire, settings, controls, temps, parts, etc. After my personal experience with Lincoln, I could never suggest buying another brand. However, I have never used another brand, so I may be just as brand loyal if I had purchased another brand. I think most guys go with the Harbor Freight Cart. I did and loved it, especially for $50. I almost went Hobart welder because I really like the lowrider carts that come in the package kits - seems like they would roll under an open door and low center of gravity would keep them on all all 4 wheels.
I would check out
Mart and see that a NEW welder from them may be more in reach than you think. Lincoln really keep their value and I personally think they give you the best resale when/if ya decide to sell. I knew I would have mine for just a short time so that was a HUGE factor. Lincoln supplies are available at Home Depot and Lowe's so thats nice when you need tips or wire. So from a newbie, here are my suggestions:
- Welder with Gas (Gas is the only way to do splatter free body work welds)
- Cart (so everything is together in one place - ext. cord, magnets, gloves, wrenches, wire, tips, tank, etc. and it rolls)
-
Mart.com and Amazon.com (great prices, no tax, no shipping, great packages, best brands)- Nice AutoDarkening Helmet (Can't see what you are doing without a quality one)
- Dive In (only one way to learn)
No matter what you decide, not many things more gratifying than making something from nothing.
Yep never buy a junk Hobart welder...it was all I could do to lay 8 of these today. I mean I didn't even get a break as it never came close to the duty cycle!
