mig welder for beginner

[robandsophie]

Hi,

Thinking of buying first mig welder. Had a bit of a mooch about on-line, Clarke MIG151EN seems to be pretty good for money, with co2 gas. Haven't welded in 30 years so will start small i.e lots of practice pieces first!! Want to be able to repair my Minor when needs it (going to need cross member at some point). Anyone have any advice. Also any advice re best grinder to clean of metal work and grind welds flat.

cheers

Rob

[graham1957]

hi rob, that one will be more than adequate

[panky]

Looks like a good choice but if you plan to do more than a few small jobs I would recommend you invest in a larger re-fillable gas cylinder and regulator. The small disposable ones last about ten minutes and are over £10 each I went through literally dozens of them before I got a CO2 cylinder from my local welding suppliers, it cost about £80 including the regulator but lasts ages and is only £15 for a re-fill, it lasted me years with regular use. CO2 does the job but if you want the best then Argo Shield is the way to go - but we're talking a lot more outlay (with BOC anyway).

[greendefender123]

Iv just set myself up. Got a nearly new MAC Tools welder off a mate, brought a argon co2 mix bottle. Cost me a few hundred in the end. Bosch grinders are good. Iv saved cars and money so far and am rebuilding my moggie with it. It ideally wants upgrading to a euro torch as its worn/wearing out quickly. Just need to make my welds look neat then il be fine.