HI larry may, I have a bobcat 225/g, I'm pipe welder/fitter, structural fitter/welder and layout. I'b welding on pipe and plate for 4 years with it, no promble on any way, I have a sa-250 before and for me I can do the same work with the 2 machines because I almost never used more the 150 amps (only with fux core, arount 200 amps, butt no to offen, I work mostly on pipe), thats way I suich the machines. butt is up to you and type of work you do, and think on the fuel price this days.