I'm starting research for a new welder, mig type, my 51 has normal cancer, so a basic welder that is forgiving, has anyone used the new millermatic, or just hype?.Also I know HF has the sheetmetal roller/brake is it anygood?
Anyadvice for the rooky is appreciated

 

What ever kind you get make sure it has shield gas, it is absolutely worth the extra few bucks.

 

What supply voltage are you looking at...120V, 208/220/240V...?

A great 120V rig is the Millermatic 140. Suggested retail price on Miller's website is $770.00, but don't pay too much attention to that! My local shops gave me a price over the PHONE of $615-$659.99! THEN you wheel-&-deal on a bottle & other stuff...

Lincoln has a couple good rigs also...the 135 series & the 140 are nice 120V setups.

I guess "brand" is a personal matter...just like trucks...BUT ALWAYS GO WITH THE GAS!!!

ONE IMPORTANT THING TO REMEMBER WHEN SHOPPING: IF THIS RIG FAILS, NEEDS SERVICE, WARRANTY WORK, PARTS, OR WHAT-EVER...FIND OUT FROM YOUR "AUTHORIZED" DEALER WHATS INVOLVED...I do know Miller now has factory-approved-service at SOME of their dealers!
Check the website with the "where to buy" tab & check the boxes under the Services Offered: heading.

SOME brands actually must be returned to the manufacturer to be covered under a warranty repair...that would suck...

Call around...write down names of who you talked too, prices, ask about sales, closeouts, trade-ins, ANY discounts, student discounts, club discounts.
One shop near me even give you a student discount card to carry!

You got a community college near where you live? Go talk to the welding instructor & find out where they get their equipment locally and use that information!!!

BE CAREFUL WITH CRAIGSLIST.COM...usually with mig welders you can go "new" for about the same price!

I've been using Miller welders for many years...arc, mig and tig...and have no real complaints. Same goes for Lincoln Electric.

If memory serves me correctly...Miller manufactures Hobart welders...so if you can find a good sale price I'd say check it out!

Good Luck...

 

I have a Millermatic 135 that I bought several years ago. I love it!!!! Sometimes I wish I would have gone for the 175 (the 220v version) but I don't really need the extra juice.

I decided on the Miller because it had a completey variable power and speed controls.

Bobby

 

As was said here previously, just make sure you go with the gas shield, no flux core or stick and practice, practice, practice or even take a course in welding sheet metal before you start burning, through and warping your truck.....

Welcome and have fun....

 

Thanx for the helpfull stuff ..