It's got to be a Miller, no question.

You need AC if you are going to weld aluminum?

A foot pedal is best, correct?

I already have 220 in the shop.

What is an inverter?

The one I used didn't have to scratch start, so I think I want an HF start?

Are any of the newer, smaller machines worth it?

Budget max is $1500, I would prefer $1000 or less.

 

if 1500 is your budget, the only thing miller you could get is the new diversion 165. i just got a thermal arc 185 and its great!

 

I got my Syncrowave 180 SD, which has HF start and AC/DC, on Craigslist for less than your budget. It was Miller's entry level machine until the 165 came out. The welder came with everything but gas (including the runner package) and only had 46 minutes of total use on it. Keep your eyes open for deals. I know I didn't get the best deal, but I've been happy.

-Schuyler

 

As stated above, 1500 doesn't go very far in a Miller lol

On ebay the Thermal Arc 185 is 2050 shipped with all the accessories. I was quoted 2500 today at a local place, and just due to the customer service aspect I may buy from him. You can also go to your local places and see if they have used stuff, or trial machines that the factories use and are for sale.

 

Well, I have been looking at some stuff and have found quite a bit but it varies so much.

I don't know which would be better, very old(cheap) machines, fairly old but large, or the newer but smaller machines.

It doesn't have to be new.

 

I got my Sync 500 used with all new pedal, torch etc for a bit less than your budget. It's pretty old but it works great, if you have the space and power for it they are all over the place at auctions and stuff.

 

Good price or not?

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll...m=170291447873

 

Why not the Diversion 165? It around $1,275.00 from Cyberweld. (Just Asking)

 

Yeah, that seems like a good deal.

Is there not much of a difference between the two?

I can get the foot pedal later if I need it.

 

i just pickedup an old school dialarc 250hf for the shop
1200 with foot pedal @ a bernard torch cooler

i like the old machines better. they may not be portable (in a shop they just need to roll, really) but parts are cheap and readily available

if something breaks its a simple fix. no costly circuit boards and stuff to replace


i'd like at getting an old dialarc or an airco (rebadged miller)

 

i highly reccomend the miller econo TIG, click my link to see some of my work i have done with it, have 6 welders total but preffer to use it when i can