Ok.. guys here is whats up, i've got an itch for a Engine driven welder miller or lincoln (preferred miller). I'm looking for a minimum of 90 OCV, what do you all prefer on this matter.
It all depends on what you are wanting or needing to do with the machine? Not enough info on what you want it to do for you. Do you need a multiprocess machine with single and three phase auxzillary power? How much DC/AC output do you need? What kind of welding are you doing or wanting to do with a new machine? Dont worry about OCV get a machine that has an adjustable "hot start" "dig" "inductance" etc that allows you to custom taylor your volt/amp curve to the situation you are welding in, this will give you what you are looking for in OCV's and you wont be stuck in one curve for everything.
I agree it can or could be a factor its just generally a number that doesn't come up until after some other issues normally do, maybe he knows more about it than the first thread in this post leads us to assume? Usually posts that vague consider machine size, amps output, type of work first, etc. Ocv doesn't usually come up until we get to advanced specs.
I would have to agree with Cactus that it is about the ultimate machine, not sure if I was just scratching an itch I would be looking at a unit that sells for 14 large? I think the ocv is fairly low on those anyway??? I do like the VRD feature, nice if working in a wet crap hole. The little Maxstar has that on it too, nice, no pokes even with wet gloves. If you are really looking for it the restarts are not quite as good, but its really minor and one has to be paying attn to even notice it.
I'm partial to the Red machines, but I've never owned a new engine drive. I'd have to give the Blue machines a chance, if I was to buy a new one tomorrow. The reason being is the customer service between the two. Miller's has been superb, pertaining to what products I have purchased of theirs. I wish I could say the same for Lincoln. Your results may vary. Lol.
I have a Trailblazer 301G on the truck that I use for most everything and I like it(bought it new when I started out), I also have an SA-250 that I pull out when I know I will be welding pipe all day, or doing bull work, the little Miller just cant keep up with the old hoss. When I go for a new machine probably in the spring it is going to be a Vantage 500 compact.
Some of the 7018's are tough to light off with low OCV.
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