midtraveltaco
New member
I am looking at getting a welder I was wondering what type of welder would be best for building bumpers and role cages thanks.
Timely thread..I'm looking for a welder for the same application. I emailed a machinist/metalhead friend of mine the same question and his reply:
"What brand are you going to buy? Miller is the best. Lincoln is a close second and I hear Hobart are okay also. Don't mess with any of the off brands. You're going to need service and accesories and brand name makes that easier.
Also, with Mig you are going to need gas refills every once-in-a-while so find a shop you like that can sell you gas and wire and give you advice. I've been using the same small shop for years. The guys know me by name and always help with advice and deals. If you buy your machine from a shop like this you will pay more but it will be worth establishing a relationship. it's almost more important which shop you buy from than which brand you buy. Drive to all the local shops and talk to the guys, then make a decision.
The next question is size. You are going to need to know what size metal you intend to weld in order to pick a welder size. Also, bigger welders need more electicity. Your dryer outlet is 30 Amps so don't buy a welder that requires more than that or you will have to do some serious electrical work on your house. My welder runs on 50 amps and I had to spend $400 and 2 days running power to it.
Also, try not to get talked into flux-core wire feed welders. They are cheaper and don't need gas but the welds suck and they make a mess. If you have to save money, buy one that can be converted to Mig later when you have the cash."