EZ Tig any good?

[Fitshipper]

Since I only work P/T, it takes a while to save up for a purchase. I am looking to purchase a bargain priced AC/DC Tig machine this fall/spring. I am a Lincoln fan by experience. Hobart sells a small Tig unit for a really good price. It should run off of my Ranger 225. Don't know if anyone has one or an opinion on one. The reason I ask is because we had two Millers, of the same type, at the shipyard where I worked and they both had problems.
I'd rather have a Lincoln but the cost would mean waiting a few months longer to save up.



http://store.cyberweld.com/hotigweez...677765657a3136

[Gamble]

I probably would have gotten something like that if I had access to 230v, but I don't. I got the miller diversion 180 and LOVE LOVE LOVE it.

[Wrenchtamer]

Looks striking similar to the diversion to me. Looks like no freguency or balance adjustment though. I think if it's meant to be this would be a good machine to start out with. And if it's not meant to be this would be a good machine to start out with. Just as long as you understand it's limitations at 20% duty max amperage.

[DSW]

"wait a few months longer and save up..."

It's a nice machine but it has some drawbacks. If your plan is to do alum, it's underpowered in my opinion. You can do 1/8" with that machine maxed out but with a very low duty cycle. You will be stuck with the torch that comes with the unit and can not upgrade in the future if you want to. It lacks any advanced adjustments at all, such as the ability to change your balance or postflow and can not pulse or do stick ( not a huge deal since you have your Ranger).

One option would be to simply do scratch start Dc tig using your Ranger if you just want to do steel/ stainless. I don't believe the Ranger has the option for a remote for a pedal but I could be wrong as I'm not that familiar with Lincoln's engine drives. A better choice would probably be a used Lincoln or Miller tig with more advanced functions if you are serious about doing alum tig. For a shop, something like a Syncrowave 180/200 or a TA 185 from Thermal Arc if you can find one. If your plan is to do portable AC tig you probably need to look into a Dynasty 200 for a small portable AC tig with all the functions, but it will set you back quite a bit even used.

[Fitshipper]

The company that sold me the Ranger told me to buy the Diversion as well.

[Fitshipper]

Good points. Looks like I may have to wait a few months longer and save up. Thanks DSW.

[farmall]

No one I've met regrets buying quality.