NWCS
Addicted to ArboristSite
due to my old 1996 Hobart Handler 120 welder being stolen i went out and bought a new welder last night at Home Depot. so far here are my thoughts on it.
Lincoln WeldPak 3200HD Kit
so far on chainsaw mufflers this puts down a much better bead than the Hobart, the low setting is right on the money. the hobart was a bit too hot.
when used with a 75/25 mix that i allways use the weld quality is great! i am using the mild steel wire that came with the welder (made in USA) the flux core wire that came with it is useless to me, i will not use flux core. the gun is also layed out better, much easier to use than the hobart style gun. for just under $500 after tax this is a killer welder. the wire speed settings are very responsive and accurate.
the shortcomings:
1: gas hose needs to be longer
2: assembly instructions are VERY lacking.
3: securing to the included cart leaves the spool door propped open a tiny bit due to screw heads.
4: cables could be 1-2 ft longer, would make things easier.
5: ground clamp could be better.
the good points:
1: heat control is perfect for saw mufflers and tin work.
2: speed control is great.
3: cabinet quality is nice, easy to get to everything.
4: wire loads very easily.
5: gun has perfect neck angle for control and bead visibility. you can actually see what you are doing.
6: gas nozzle superior to hobart design.
overall view: well worth the money, highly recommended for a small shop or handyman type work. ease of use puts the Hobart to shame.
3:
Lincoln WeldPak 3200HD Kit
so far on chainsaw mufflers this puts down a much better bead than the Hobart, the low setting is right on the money. the hobart was a bit too hot.
when used with a 75/25 mix that i allways use the weld quality is great! i am using the mild steel wire that came with the welder (made in USA) the flux core wire that came with it is useless to me, i will not use flux core. the gun is also layed out better, much easier to use than the hobart style gun. for just under $500 after tax this is a killer welder. the wire speed settings are very responsive and accurate.
the shortcomings:
1: gas hose needs to be longer
2: assembly instructions are VERY lacking.
3: securing to the included cart leaves the spool door propped open a tiny bit due to screw heads.
4: cables could be 1-2 ft longer, would make things easier.
5: ground clamp could be better.
the good points:
1: heat control is perfect for saw mufflers and tin work.
2: speed control is great.
3: cabinet quality is nice, easy to get to everything.
4: wire loads very easily.
5: gun has perfect neck angle for control and bead visibility. you can actually see what you are doing.
6: gas nozzle superior to hobart design.
overall view: well worth the money, highly recommended for a small shop or handyman type work. ease of use puts the Hobart to shame.
3:
Is it a Tweco gun? I like Miller guns more; I like the nozzles more, and the gun angle. Mine came with a little cart, but I want to make a heavier cart, as I have already put a heavier cylinder than it warns on it. I have a 75/25 cylinder for steel, and an argon cylinder for aluminum. I want to make a cart with space for both cylinders.
