MM210 vs MM251

[hoffdog]

Ok I know this has been gone over time and time again but here we go. within the next month I'm gonna pull the triger and get a new Mig. Kinda decided on the MM210 but I do on occasion ( a couple times a year) build a 24"box out of 1/2" mild steel. My question to the experienced folks is. Will the MM210 be able to do weld a 24" outside corner of 1/2" steel plate in a single pass? I know it's only rated for 3/8" but I thought it might be able to pull this off on an outside corner. I only would be doing it a couple times a year anyway and since I'm just a hobytype the extra money can be put to use on other tools.

BTW heard a few rumors about a MM235 coming out. Anyone else seen anything about that?

[MAC702]

That's a new rumor on me, but I would get the MM210 in your position. On an outside corner, you should be able to lay a real nice bead inside. Even if you couldn't fill it all the way, a second pass would seal the deal for as often as you expect to have to fabricate it.

Many prefer the tapped short circuit arc of the MM210 for fabrication.

[Sirarcalot]

At the risk of showing my ignorance; Why do "Many prefer the tapped short circuit arc of the MM210 for fabrication"? I have seen some of the threads on this board that imply that they like the way the MM210 welds over the MM251. Why is this? I think I saw a thread from Dan that implied that.
Any education you can provide would be appreciated.

[MAC702]

I'm sure Dan will chime in later, as he really knows his stuff about how these machines work.

The tapped machine has been described as a softer arc with a wetter bead. Might have something to do with the inductance difference between the tapped machine and the solid-state variable voltage machine.

[Sirarcalot]

Thanks Mac. I hope Dan does chime in.