best 230v mig welder for around 700-800 bucks

[Pete M]

Need one that'll weld 1/4", preferably doing that on gas.  beyond that I'm not sure I know enough to have opinions.  It's been 20 years since I last welded anything and I was using a machine the size of a fridge to do it.  :D

 

the Hobart Handler 190 and millermatic 190 are in the running so far.  would love a dual power unit, but can't find ine cheap enough.

[neohic]

That's a tough price range to work in there, Pete. The Miller 190 is a fun little package, but for a little more I'd look at the 211. Never have I ever said, "ya know... I really wish I had less capabilities" when talking about a welder. If you plan to go Miller, have a look at THEIR REBATES going on through Dec. 31. Otherwise, have a look at the Lincoln 210 MP also. That's a stout little machine and can be had for right around $1000. It just came available this year and the demand is big enough that a bunch of suppliers are a few weeks out on getting more in my area. While in the same price range, a Tweco (formerly Thermal Arc) 211i is a real winner in my book when it comes to functionality and fine tuning options in the small welder line. 110v or 220v is a nice option too. But again, for a little bit more its bigger 252i brother has a ton more punch.

 

I'd highly consider looking a little higher than the $800 cap.  :thumbsup:

[CobraMarty]

Look at the Eastwood MIG 250.  Bought one recently and it welds better than anything else we have used.  $899, you get more than you pay for.

 

http://www.eastwood.com/mig-250.html

[Megadan]

I have an Eastwood MIG that I have been using for 2 years.  Great welder, no issues or complaints.

Another option would be a Hobart 210.  Also a decent little welder, and falls really close to your price range.

[dasbulliwagen]

Is your total budget $800? I bought my Hobart 140, gas bottle, large spool of wire, and some extra tips and have about that much in it. I don't see you going bigger and staying in that budget without getting something used for a complete setup.

[Pete M]

that's the budget for the welder.  gas, clothing, etc are separate line items.  my uncle is buying it for me as payment for building the XJ.  I guess I should probably just expect to drop in a bit of my own money to step up to a nicer welder.

 

that eastwood looks pretty sweet... 

[1987Comanche]

I've had my Lincoln Pro-MIG 175 for about 10 yrs and I love it.  I had to add a 240V outlet to the garage for it but that just keeps people from borrowing it :)

[yxmj]

I have 3 welders 2 110's and the same 220v 190 Miller you describe. They all have their purpose....but one thing that should be looked at (IMHO) is after sales service. The Miller was bought locally from a dealer ( a few years back) now I do not recall how much warranty I got with it but I do know that Millers policy (at least at this dealer) was if your machine had a problem (warranty or not) they would give you a loner (same model or better) that same day. So down time was never a problem. Now I have never had a single second of downtime with the Miller, but it was nice to know that was there for me.

 

Oh....I paid a few Hun north of $1000  . :MJ 1: .