Welding Tips and Tricks

Hi, Im new to welding and I just got a good deal for the Pro MIg 180 at Lowes for like 550. Was wondering if I should go for a Power Mig which I here its better and more professional for 650 or stay with Pro Mig 180?
Also, I can also get the ProMig 140 for 450 and Since im new, and I dont weld anything 1/2 thick, cause im starting to learn, should I get the 110v vs 220 because of portability?

Thanks,,

I bought a Lincoln Electric 180C MIG/Flux Core welder from Ivey (a Lincoln Electric distributor). The Lowes or Home Depot ones, from what I’ve researched, are okay until they break. They are of lesser quality. I verified this with Lincoln Electric Tech folks; there is a difference. I wired my garage for the 220 Volts. My personal preference was a bigger machine that would do the job of a smaller machine too. This decision was very helpful when I jumped to a bigger project like the utility trailer I just built. Hope this helps.

Go big or go home I always say... You will not regret it.

I own a 180c, purchased at the local welding store. Differences include cast aluminum drive as opposed to plastic drive train. Decide whether you need your machine to last a long time or a short time, these parts are expensive. The 180c also has the "diamond " start feature which ensure easy arc striking every time. Yep, it works makes a big difference where joints aren't as clean as they should be for lazy guys like me. Oh, can't forget the most important part, the ALU handle. I believe that the extra money is worth it and you get to establish a better relationship with your local welding shop. HD won't drop a few tips in your hand or include a pair of gloves with your purchase. Have you ever tied to return something to HD for warranty repair? Oi vey!

I think for the price difference, I would go with a 220 volt unit. You can never have enough power!
It is interesting to see the differences posted here between the Big Box Store models and the LWS versions. I know that the 180c has an infinitely adjustable voltage dial versus the "tapped" settings "A,B,C,D,E" on the cheaper models (180T).

I just (1 mo ago) bought a "Lincoln power mig 180" welder. One of my bros has a (older) lincoln 125 amp wire feeder welder, and another has a older miller about the same. I never realized how slick those things are! I went with the lincoln 'cause that bro, his son actually, used to be a welder and wont buy anything that doesent say lincoln on it, and he is still a good welder. (He used to weld those lil expansion chambers for gasoline power R/C race cars. Now he sells 'em)

Mine is a dual voltage unit, and I had already wired my garage for 220 v for my thermalarc tig. Thermal Arc's are nice I guess, (what do I know), but seem pricey, and theres a $100 rebate rite now for several lincoln units.
For what its worth, , , , -Corn-