Topic: Opinion on Welder Model : Campbell Hausfeld

[CBJoe]

Ok...so my company has one of those pat-you-on-the-back award point things and I've got a chuck to spend.  I don't want any of the silly crap on there, but then I noticed the following:

Campbell Husfeld 115V 70amp Mig/Flux Welder

http://www.atgstores.com/welders/campbell-hausfeld-wg216001av-115v-70-amp-migflux-wire-welder_g734889.html

I realize that there may be better models out there..but I'm limited to this one and one other.  The other is a cheaper Arch Welder (dont know model off top of my head).

Is this think just a piece of crap?  Or good enough for someone who has never welded and would like to be able to do basic frame welding/bracing/etc...?

This tool would be a learning experience for me.

Cheers, Joe

[cougar]

Joe ; Not sure what's up, link didn't work. But I did a Google search for what you said it was. Went to a link for this, http://www.sears.com/campbell-hausfeld-115v-mig-flux-wire-feed-welder/p-SPM5793618402 . If this is what your looking at it's not a bad beginners welder. I bought an earlier model without the Polarity switch but other than that mine is the same. Fairly good little welder. I would definitely get the Mig gas set up for it if the one your looking at doesn't come with it. With the gas you have a LOT cleaner welds without having to remove the slag that comes with Flux Core (real PITA). The wire speed control on mine seems WAY to touchy and Having infinite control on the heat is Nice but you can get use to the 4 setting control. If this will be your first attempt at welding, this won't be to bad a welder but I'll let you in on a little secret (and others will agree), once you get use to it you Will want a bigger one ! But not bad for a starter.    ...cougar...   P.S. Just take your time and LISTEN for the Bacon Frying !!

[madScientist]

I second what "cougar" says. It looks like a good entry level welder to get your feet wet. You are definitely going to want to pair it up with C25 steel mix. The welds are much cleaner...just dont weld outside in the wind :-D

To learn welding you can get by without the gas setup. Get a roll of flux core, .030 is agood all around thickness, and some flat weld steel. Learn how to weld straight lines with a good flow. It should look like a caterpillar when done (with a lot of splatter). Flip the plate over and look for discoloration in the area of the weld. This indicates you're getting proper penetration. This will also let you experiment with the voltage setting as well as wire speed to start learning what different thicknesses like for penetration.  You can also experiment with the "patterns". Zig zag and push / pull are my fav's.

After you get good at welding lines and you're comfortable with the concepts then try sticking two pieces together. Keep in mind the weld is molten as you go and gravity will affect the direction of the weld.