Hi all, I'm looking to embark on learning how to do bodywork this spring and was wondering what a good, beginner level, MIG welder would be? Also, any good manuals on how to use a MIG welder?

 

Rick, there are alot of decent low level welders out there to learn on. Problem is, most of them are 110 volts. They do ok on the really thin stuff, but if you wanted to weld anything as far as frames or anything else of a heavy guage it won't cut it. That'll take a 220 volt mig. & they tend to get pricey. As for the manuals, I'm no help there. Good luck!
Casey

 

Get one that you can run 23 ga. wire in. It will do all you need as far as fender repair goes. As for manuals, One will come with a new welder. There is nothing like O.J.T. You learn by doing. Get started cause you ain't gonna learn any younger.

 

Rick,
you and I are in similar situations. I just ordered a MIG welder so I could learn with it and do my own patching, etc. I really wanted a 230V but when I looked at them in the Harbor Freight catalog I thought the price would prevent me from getting one. It turns out that there are places on the web with prices MUCH lower. I ordered a 230V Hobart handler 175 for $20 more than HArbor freight was selling their 115V Hobart Handler 135.
Unfortunately, the price went up on them this morning- but they're still quite a bit less than any catalog I have seen. I don't have the experience neccessary to recommend a welder, but I just wanted you to know that there are good deals out there.
Take a look at http://209.41.55.91/index.html (AAA welding supply) or http://www.cyberweld.com These have the best prices I have found on new (not used or reconditioned) welders.

Nate

1964 F-100 Custom Cab 292 V-8 3 spd
1964 F-100 292 V-8 3 spd
1990 F-150 5.8L
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