Get two MIG welders....cuz changing .023 to .030/.035 wire gets old when switching between body work and chassis/frame mods and repair.

I've got a Miller 140 and Miller 211.... and a Miller Diversion 180 TIG.

 

I use splatter shield paste, the cheap Princess Auto brand, when I do the flux core. It really helps to keep the tip clean and easy to clean, seems to control the surface splatter, wire wheel on the drill takes care of that. On thicker welds I also weld the back side and if I'm attaching something to the face of a piece of plate I usually cut a 1/16" groove with a 1/8" wide cutting disc, just a penetration thing. I'm retired so I'm in no hurry so that allows me to be a bit more patient and take my time. My Lincoln supposed to be able to be set up for aluminium, stainless steel and tig but I wouldn't waste my time using those functions. if I need to tig I'll either use my brothers or get a dedicated tig welder.

 

Taking everyone's advice into consideration, I've decided MIG is the way to go. However, I can not afford a new one. What do you guys think about this one? Miller millermatic 130xp 115v wire feed welder I have not heard back from the seller so I do not know if it comes with a bottle or not. Is the price fair for the condition and age?

 

My first welder was a Hobart handler 140. They are $480 from tractor supply with a kit that includes regulator and wire. I still own it and have it on c25 gas with 23 thou wire for body work. It runs off a regular household socket.

I've also picked up a handler 190 I run 35 thou flux core in for thicker stuff.

I built a utility trailer and all kinds of projects with the 140. Pretty much anything quarter inch or less if you know what you're doing. Duty cycle is low but that's OK for hobby welding.

The 190 will weld basically anything I need it to, with a preheat from my torches it will do almost half inch stuff with multiple passes and I don't have much that's thicker than that. I also have a Lincoln arc welder I use on really thick stuff with no preheat, especially if appearance isn't important.

The important part of welding is really more the prep work. Taking the time to fit the joints, clean them, clamp them so they don't move, tack them, then weld them requires patience and a little bit of experience.

I think if you start with the handler 140, you'll get a great welder that's easy to use and you won't be disappointed.

The 130 you posted is similar....but people go crazy for used Lincoln and Miller rigs so it's probably already sold.

If you buy a used one make sure you can test it first.

And hit up harbor freight for an auto darkening helmet, single best item a new welder can purchase. If you have the money for a better one then have at it but the $39 harbor freight one does the job.