Anyone have any knowledge on the suitcase welders? Miller X-treme 8vs or 12 vs? It looks like those will run off any power source and have a pretty good duty cycle. Also looks like they will run aluminum wire direct without a spool gun. Am I reading this wrong? I have a Bobcat 250.... maybe that cou...

Add a Spool Gun (make sure its rated for running 5356 wire as not all are) and you are all set. https://www.weldingsuppliesfromioc.com/miller-spoolmate-150-spoolgun-150a-20-feet-301272 Is there a specific reason to use a spool gun for aluminum vice the standard spool in the machine? Is it because t...

Here's an example of a small but capable MIG machine: https://www.weldingsuppliesfromioc.com/miller-millermatic-211-mig-welder-with-advanced-auto-set-907614 Add a Spool Gun (make sure its rated for running 5356 wire as not all are) and you are all set. https://www.weldingsuppliesfromioc.com/miller-...

A- What welding machine(s) do you have now? B- How much can you afford to upgrade? A: Lincoln Squarewave 175 /Miller Bobcat 250 /Burco Mosa 200. I do all my in shop fab work off the squarewave. Mostly only use the Bobcat for u/w welding and burning (when required,which ain't often!). B: I'd like to...

I have a few projects coming up that is going to require more than my normal amount of welding. We have an aluminum crewboat that needs some fab work as well as the possibility of building a 10'x30'x3' material barge. Because I work mild steel, stainless, and aluminum pretty interchangeably I haven'...

Otto Nobedder wrote:
Supposing I divorce and date again, what age group do you see me pursuing? I'm pushing 50...

Steve

18-80....

If you are young enough to still have great eyes you can get away with another "cheapie" from your local discount tool store or big box store. You don't actually need an auto darkening helmet if you are good enough. In fact a cheap bucket helmet can be fitted with a glass green lense with...

Since your business depends on it you might also keep an old-fashioned static helmet with a #10 lens on hand: good for visitors, that extra helper, or the battery that craps out at the worst possible moment. I have reverted to my old standard helmet in the meantime. I laugh at myself all the time n...

Price range would be helpful here. It seems like you don't want to spend a ton of money but I don't know how much is too much. I don't mind spending freedom chips for a quality tool. I am just worried after searching the market briefly that I am somewhat out of touch with all of the new updates and...

My helmet has died. Time for a new one. Too many choices out there. Need advice. I don't know who the manufacturer of my current helmet is but it was a solar powered auto-darkening. I am not a welder by trade, I own and operate a commercial diving company and use welding as required to fab, repair, ...