[DSW]

$65 is a decent price for an older transformer stick machine. Usually I see them for between $50-150 for the AC only ones. I'm betting it's an AC unit. It will get you started inexpensively and if you want to upgrade to an AC/DC unit later, chances are you can get most of your money back when you sell it then. Several guys here have even made money on machines like this simply by putting in some elbow grease and cleaning up the machine before they list them and getting more that they originally paid for the.

I'd have no qualms about that price and buying that machine, even sight unseen. The only down side to the old top crank Tbolts is that they sometimes have the crank seize up from sitting. Make sure it will crank up and down, or reduce your offer, Usually if you simply open it up and lube the screw, you won't have any issues if it already moves. If it's stuck, then it's a bit more involved and I'm not sure that part is still available if it's frozen beyond repair.


Stick is a good way to learn the basics. All the projects you listed are easily doable with a stick machine and either 3/32" or 1/8" rods. Sheet metal projects are harder to do and will require a lot more practice, but they can be done. Stick is usually best for materials over 14ga because it's a hotter process than mig in general.

 

[DSW]

Yep that's one of the older AC units. Not sure what's going on with that thing with the red ends that is front and center in that pict. Looks like the handle to the stinger, but it should only have one cable, not two. Pict isn't really clear enough to tell much more.

$65 is a decent price around here, even if you need to replace the lead and stinger. I'd guess you'd still be below $125-150 when done. If it does have two cables on the stinger for some reason, I'd push a bit on the price to see if he'd drop it to $45-50. To be safe, figure $3/ ft if you need new cable, and maybe $20 for a new stinger. I can't remember what the lugs for that machine run, but I'd probably try to splice in the old one if the end near the machine is in decent shape.