Caoboy

Are there budget machines that include:

AC/DCEP/DCEN

Hi Freq start

Foot Pedal option

Inverter (optional)

That are under $1k?

I've been pricing machines and it seems like the cheapest I could find (new) so far was a Lincoln that was 220v 1 phase stick+TIG (not inverter) for about $1,500. Foot pedal was another $500, so $2k to start.


Just wondering what you've found that is out in the industry that might also be good as a 'hobby' machine as well.

I think 98vtec had a thread about an Everlast? Or maybe even a whole thread related to this subject awhile back, I'm searching for that as well.

sdr KEL

I've started out on the everlast micro180 it was a great starter unit to see if you really wanna get into welding. I then upgrade to the everlast 200dx which had more options, I highly recommend upgrading the pedal to the U.S. One that everlast carry.

Pictures of my work that was done on the everlast 200dx is on my Instagram

https://instagram.com/dsrxkellybuilt/

ImAcracker

I just recently purchased an AHP AlphaTIG 200x.
I have never TIG welded previous to purchasing this machine. So far I like it. Has tons of options. I am in no way a good welder, but here is a picture of my best so far.

I did receive the unit with the HF start not working, however I spoke with tech support and they had me check a few voltages and sent me a new HF start card. I was really excited they were ok with me changing out the part myself. Was not looking forward to packaging this thing up and shipping it out. Luckly they have RMA support in the states. So they shipped the new part from TN. I had a fully working machine in about a week from when I first found the problem. Note that I first found the problem Friday evening on Labor day weekend. So 3 or so days of that 1 week doesnt really count.

OneBadTurboCRV

He is a little rough to watch, but here you go:


Some say AHP and Everlast are the same or similar:


I personally bought an Eastwood TIG 200 AC/DC for a BS cheap garage machine. The older designs were garbage, but the latest revisions are decent for the price. Couldn't be happier with my decision. Here is some more insight below, things have changed for some machines in 2015. It really comes down to what you are wanting to use it for and how often. If it is just going to be a hobby, there is no reason to buy an expensive machine no matter what people try to tell you.

There are MANY reviews and debates on this matter. It really comes down to preferences and budget. Don't let the nut riders decide for you. If it makes a difference, I also have a Miller Dynasty 200 DX.

https://honda-tech.com/welding-fabri...views-3225215/

1sick4g63

iTrader: (1)

AHP200x is the best bang for the buck. I have owned every one in the video above and then some. That longevity has an issue, it doesn't normally weld like that.

OneBadTurboCRV

Yeah, that's what I keep hearing. Unfortunately for me I bought the Eastwood before that was proven to be a real option (maybe even came out - IDK, can't remember). LOL!

Caoboy

I'm still here guys, thanks for the input.

I'm looking at these machines like they're crap lol.

But I think that's because I've been spoiled using Miller machines in class. Synchrowave 250 iirc.

I do intend to use the machine for both hobby and a bit of a side business.

98vtec

Jody from Welding Tips and Tricks.com has really had nothing but good things to say about the everlast powertig inverter units.


however, I opted to go with something I could have serviced and get parts for locally as well as any warranty work.

Reyes

iTrader: (1)

I have been reading about the Everlast power Tig 200DV and AHP units lately. They seem to be pretty even on features, but the Everlast is $500 more.

The 2015 AHP is supposed to have a better torch than the Everlast.

I think one of the most important things about buying a "Made in China" machine is getting something that has good customer service.

I might be ordering an AHP soon.

sdr KEL

I'd swap out the torch. Get a 9 torch with flexible cable. being comfortable is key to being a good welder.

1sick4g63

iTrader: (1)

Torches on every welder suck for the most part. I love my ahp. I'd try out the everlast though. The 200dv is supposed to be a great machine.

the171

Just ordered my first tig machine. Went with the AHP 200x, I agree it has the best specs for the price plus it seems to work decent enough on 110v, which is good for me. Amazon out of stock, bought from ebay for $800 free ship. Hoping for no troubles.

Most definitely, I would prefer to buy from a trusted brand like miller. But their entry level machine is triple the price with a weak duty cycle and only basic controls.

Caoboy

The AHP is looking like a good option.

rice a roni

iTrader: (1)

Figured I'd chime in...

I picked up a longevity, same one that the guy in the first youtube video up there has. I switched out the torch for a 17, but thats the only mod I've done. Its been about two years now, still working for me. I've done stainless tubing for intercooler pipes, aluminum tubing for intercooler pipes, and mild steel.

The only thing I havent been able to do is cast iron. Can't really tig cast iron. If someone does know how, show me :D.

OneBadTurboCRV

You can definitely weld cast iron with TIG. I have repaired quite a few EK exhaust manifolds that way, heck even the one on my current DD...

Welding Cast Iron can make a preacher cuss.

the171

just received the package from AHP. Looks pretty sick for the money. The kit does not come with tungsten & rods, and the manual says that pure tungsten (green) is not suitable for an inverter type machine. Can anyone recommend a good tungsten choice to start on aluminum?

Caoboy

Uhh...pure? We use green/grey band in class for aluminum, red band for everything else. (Red is 2% thoriated iirc)

the171

I dunno, I'm certainly a beginner. But the manual says in bold DO NOT use pure, 100% tungsten, green band, with this machine.

Caoboy

Does it say why?

1sick4g63

iTrader: (1)

Because you don't use pure tungsten on inverter machines.

Caoboy

@the171

Selecting the right tungsten - TheFabricator.com

I've done a little research and came across this article. Hope it helps.

98vtec

2% lanthanated appears to withstand AC best from the ones I have tried which is just about all of them other than the hybrid ones

Nottheonion

Thanks for posting

Im going to be buying mine from amazon today for 750 and upgrading the torch asap

Nottheonion

I stopped at a local miller welding repair shop to see if they had any used millers comparable to ahp and their entry level ac/dc tig machine was 2000.

So my ahp should be here Wednesday

aluthman

I've used 2% thoriated and 2% lanthanated tungsten on aluminum before and both work well on my AHP AlphaTIG 200X. Pure tungsten doesn't work well with inverter machines, although I forget exactly why (I've never tried it).