I know some of you will think this is stupid, but I have a question about 2 very similar machines. I am a high school woodshop teacher in Ohio, and am looking to purchase a small buzz box for repairs and other small jobs. I would like to buy a 115 volt mig setup, so that it can be moved anywhere, without worry of where to plug it in. Also, I have a $300 card that can be redeemed at only lowes or home depot. Both storesd offer lincoln electric equipment. Lowes offers the Lincoln Pro Mig 140 that puts out 140 amps for $529. But Home Depot offers an almost identical model (Lincoln Weld Pak 3200HD) but only puts out 135 amps for $50 less and comes with a cart. Is it worth spending $50 more for 5 amps? I also know that some professionals claim that these models sold at these stores are not as heavy duty as ones sold at a lws store. I am aware of this, but kind of have to go there, because of the $300 cards. Also it will not be used all that often to worry about it.
Any Help, would be a great help.
Thanks, Curse
lincoln or miller...if you buy anything else, you will have problems getting parts.
I suggest you go to the Lincoln website and download manuals for both models and find out if there actually is a difference. Also, look over the wire-feed mechanism on both to see if there are any plastic or cheaper parts on the lower priced model. Another thing you should check is the number of taps on the voltage control (more is better). You might also be looking at last year's model in the 135 amp machine, but essentially the same with a different rating method. (Both will likely have only a 20 % duty cycle, which is adequate for your intended use.)
People on this forum do not denigrate anyone asking an honest question!
As far as I know the machines are identical, I don't believe on those models they cheapen them, they do bastardize the model numbers. They know which store sold them and the dealers have an agreement for the SP series. People would directly price shop box store against a LWS.
My brother got the 3200, so far so good. I put floors in Dad's VW and his 65' Fairlane with it without a hitch. As far as I am concerned it is a 110 MIG and does all it is asked in that world.
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