robertbartsch

There is a Hobart 130 AMP MIG welder in the Harbor Freight catolog for $325; it uses 115 volt current.

Is this a good deal?

I'd like to buy a 230 volt system but I woudl then need to new run circuts in the house ans it seem too much of a pain.

86SWB

iTrader: (1)

It is most probably a refurbished unit, if you want to take that chance.

jimmyblue

iTrader: (11)

Hobart is a generally respected brand that is
easy to get parts for. I would take a refurb
Hobart over an import anyday (though, in this
day, you have to be sure that even an
"American" brand hasn't started badging
Chinese).

MIGs run lower voltage, more step-down than
stick boxes so 115V/25A might get you your
12V-24V/130A.

robertbartsch

If it is a refurbished unit; the seller must disclose this fact under law. There is no such disclosure about this in the Harbor Freight catalog.

Question: Why should I care where the unit is manufactured; I'm just looking for the best value and I don't care if it is made in China, South America or Alabama?

jimmyblue

iTrader: (11)

Because welding supply shops are more likely to carry
parts & supplies for the types of welders, that "real
welders" use - and the guys who do it for a living
tend to stick with the major brands, domestic models,
that they know they can get parts for. A circular
situation, but there you are.

You want new tips for a Miller or Lincoln gun, OK.
Find them at just about any welding supply - if
not on the shelf, at least the manufacturer's
catalog and they'll order it. The internal parts too.

If your New Progress People's Electric Machinery
Company unit happens to use one-off parts, good
luck. Unless they straight copied a Lincoln, which is
not a farfetched possibility.

JP87GN

Its a good deal, Miller and Hobart are the same for the most part. The millers are the commercial and use a slightly bigger power supply. I have a Millermatic 135 and its awesome for sheet metal and smaller scale fabrication. ( up to 3/16 thick) The hobart will be the same. If you plan to weld on 1/4 in. steel alot I would recomend a 220 unit. Also consider you will need a cart ,bottle and wire on top for expenses.

robertbartsch

OK: I suppose some eye protection would be a good idea too...

robertbartsch

they just jacked up teh price to 425

Bill's 02 Z-28 SS

hi Folks
I just bought the Lincoln 135T 120 VAC - I paid $440. it is not a bad unit but I was looking the units at Harbor Freight but started going for a better unit. I did buy the HF helmet auto darking and the tank from them also. A good deal 20 cubic feet bottle for $62.99.
Bill

robertbartsch

I think I saw Lincolns selling at Lowes; is this right?

Bill's 02 Z-28 SS

Hi Bob
I saw it Home Depot, I did not look at Lowes. I purchased at Sears when they had their 10% off day.
Bill

robertbartsch

Are Sears welders built by Lincoln or Hobart?

Bill's 02 Z-28 SS

I don't know but they sell Lincoln welders
Bill