Welding Tips and Tricks

I have a Lincoln Precision 185 that I bought used and have a problem with the power cable, it leaks electricity . If the cable is coiled or crossing its self it will crossfire and will not weld, it messes up the gas flow. interestingly I put a protective cable cover on it that uses snaps and it creates the same problem. If I keep the cable stretched out it welds great, I have ordered a new one to fix the problem but was curious if any one has experinced this problem. this is the first tig machine I have owned so I am learning as I go.

Roland, If your cables are very old and starting to crack in the insulation they will arc and spark quit a bit, especially if using high freq to start an arc. Taping is a temp fix, replacement is the way to go. If you can afford the coin make a couple of sets of 25 footers and rig em with quick connects on the ends and you will be amazed at how much better the machine works. Good clean connections will make a marginal welder improve a good bit, but will not make a bad weld good. Have fun and enjoy your machine, and remember to practice whenever possible.
Bob