What is best 115Volt stick welder?

By dan.waldron Date 01-26-2005 23:23

I'm new to welding, just need a 115 volt stick welder for light duty up to 1/4" mild steel. Have a need for stick to get into some tight spaces right now. I spotted one at HarborFreight.com for $120, Chicago Electric brand (probably out of China), 115/230 volt, 20-70 amps @ 115 volt, weldable electrodes - 1/16", 30 lbs. Is this worth looking at for occasional use. Any opinions on best brand to buy?

By Lawrence (*****)

Date 01-27-2005 00:46

Hey Dan,

I don't think you would be satisfied or happy for very long with the equipment your looking at.

If the regular wall plug is what you have to work with, than you might want to consider a mig unit. The self shielded flux core wire is more versitile and much easier to run than 1/16 SMAW. and with no gas nozzle the little guns can get into some pretty tight spots.

Anyhow... thats my 2 cents.

By dan.waldron Date 01-27-2005 01:30

Lawrence,
Thanks for your opinion. What do you estimate the diameter of the MIG gun head to be? Is MIG as strong as SMAW?

By medicinehawk (**)

Date 01-27-2005 09:30

Miller makes a 140 (amp-Max) 115/220 with auto-link which will run either input type. This is a DC welder which "senses" the input voltage and will burn 3/32" E-7018 but you really need a 20 amp breaker to run over a 100 (amp) setting on this machine. I think the price is around $800.
It works really well in a Tig set-up. It is extremely portable and worth the price.

By SA-200

Date 02-06-2005 15:23

I think the Miller MAXSTAR 150 S is really the only 120v machine you would be happy with...