welder for flat bed

Evil.Dingo · 06-21-2009, 05:05 PM

I wasn't sure wher to put this thread, but i figured the fab guys would know best. I am going to be building up a flat bed for my '88 std cab. I was looking at this welder to use for the bed, bumpers and some body work on the cab. What are your opinions on this one. It seems a good price compared to what else I have seen. Granted there is no bells and whistles but I'm not a pro building a buggy.

Any thoughts on how it would handle some .083 square tubing? I am a newb at his welding thing. Thanks.

http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/cta...emnumber=93793

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whokrz · 06-21-2009, 05:28 PM

My coworker has a harbor freight one that he bought used. I did not care for it but it did work. I really like my 175 Miller but it is a bit more money. Miller and Lincoln seem to operate smoother and last longer but cost more.
My coworker now borrows my Miller all the time because once he used it he hated his harbor freight welder.

tc · 06-21-2009, 08:38 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by whokrz

My coworker now borrows my Miller all the time because once he used it he hated his harbor freight welder.

I have heard this a number of times from different people. I don't think the arc stability is that great on the HF. I also note that it is the same "rating" as my Lincoln, but won't handle the range of wire sizes mine will.

I have a Lincoln 180HD and it has worked fine for me. A couple people in COTTORA have Millers (a 175 and a Passport) and they produce prettier looking welds than my Lincoln does.

Good idea to go 220V.

Check out Craigslist and pawn shops - there are A LOT of great deals on welders out there!

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06-21-2009, 05:28 PM	#2 (permalink)
whokrz Registered User Join Date: Apr 2009 Location: Suisun City, California Posts: 355	My coworker has a harbor freight one that he bought used. I did not care for it but it did work. I really like my 175 Miller but it is a bit more money. Miller and Lincoln seem to operate smoother and last longer but cost more. My coworker now borrows my Miller all the time because once he used it he hated his harbor freight welder.