MIG WELDERS: I am looking to purchase a new one

If you like the versatility of 110v and 220v, the Millermatic 211 or the now discontinued DVI are excellent. If you look, you might find a DVI reeeaaalllllyyyy cheap, since they aren't made anymore. The DVI is the same as the 211, But instead it's on it's own cart with a bottle stand.

 

I have a 180 c also. .023 ez grind on gas for sheet metal. A Snap-On 250 for the big stuff. with the tig pack for sheet metal. I built 10 cars with the 180c . could go a little bigger on the amps. if you intend on welding heavy stuff. If you give it time to cool its fine. But the snap on you can weld all day. But outside your budget.

 

Buy the machine off your list that is sold by the outfit that has the best service and parts department in your area.

Best deals are one thing, tricky little features are another but when it comes down to brass tacks on a welder you need to look at who you are going to take it into for service because sooner or later every mig will need service and parts.

 

I just bought the Millermatic 212 and I really like it. It should handle most of your repairs. So far no problems.

 

I just personally used a 211 miller and it welded nice in both 110 and 220 I was actually thinking of buying one for a second welder

 

One here, too. Great machine.

Bob

 

Glad this thread was started. I am looking to pick up a mig welder as well and was wanting some opinions on this Lincoln at Lowe's. We will be doing light fab work and some frame stuff on down the line.

http://www.lowes.com/pd_256723-1703...urrentURL=/pl__0__s?newSearch=true$Ntt=welder

 

I have a miller 140 autoset, it welds thin body panels with ease and has enough balls for frame work, just gotta change wire size. I think you'll find that most welders, if you peek inside can be rewired for either 110 or 220.

 

Miller 211 is a great choice for the price. I've used the shit out of my MM 175 for years without a single issue. FYI, if you buy a dedicated 220v unit people won't bother you to borrow it all the time...

 

I have a Miller 211. I don't have 220V at my house yet but on 110V it works great. I think the multi-voltage thing is a real bonus. You've got 220V if you ever need it, and you can also weld 110v in your back yard, a friends house, etc.

 

another thought on the Miller 211...I loved the idea of a duel voltage machine and damn near bought one (in addition to shop work, also have a farm with related welding needs). for the cost of the 211 you can probably get a 180 and 125 Lincoln to give the best of both. a side benifit is that you could load aluminum in one and set up for mild steel in the other (or flux and gas)...buying two units may be quicker and easier than relying on one

 

I have a bigger Miller than the others posted,...a 252, and it's easy to use, I like the other Miller machines I have used, so I suggest the Miller brand.

 

Yes that what I was thinking. If I had to take it over somewhere I dont have to worry about 220.

 

I just bought a 211 to upgrade from my hobart 135 $949.00 at the local weld supply shop, BEST damn thing I have purchased in years. I wish I had done it a lot earlier. If you are thinking about welding aluminum miller has a spool gun that plugs right in for another $190.

 

Hate to interrupt the thread, but I have a Lincoln 175HD WeldPak and I read a couple of guys saying they added gas to them for a better weld. Where do you find the info on that? And what kind of gas? Argon?

 

I got my Lincoln 180 at home depot for around $650 add in the supersized bottle, extra spools etc. and I was out for a little over 1K.

Love it, was using a Lincoln Weld-Pac HD - welding w/gas was such a revelation, I was amazed, only regret was not doing it sooner!

 

I have a bigger Miller than the others posted,...

HooKay...who has a bigger Johnson than others posted?

 

I have a miller 180 MIG and just got a Diversion 165 TIG. Both are more than enough for 98% of this hobby. Just did a header...

 

I agree with kdxer99. I have welded with most every brand in an industrial setting and am very happy with the Hobarts. They are Miller made at a cheaper price. Not taking away from the Lincoln's or other brands though. They all have their desirable points.

 

My new Millermatic 211 is the nuts!
I'm thinking of a plasma cutter next when I can save up enough bones.
Anyone got suggestions around the $1,000 level?