Thermal Arc Predator TA-10/270

[Stelth]

I really don't need an engine-driven welder, but I saw this one on Craigslist for $400, so I took a chance. It had a few little issues, but appears to be basically unused. It came with a nice trailer, which got 2 new tires on the way home. Still needs a starter solenoid, but I can start it by shorting the terminals. I read the owner's manual, but I still have some questions on operation.



Here's the control panel. My understanding is that you get rough adjustment of amps from the left knob, and fine adjustment from the center knob. So, in other words, the left knob is currently in the 90-170 amps DC position, and the center knob would adjust between 90 and 170, is that right? However, when I turn the center knob, the rpm's go up. Since I have the engine speed switch in the "high" position, I figured it would just run at 3600 rpm all the time. Last night, I was welding with some 6013, which gives me fits with my Lincoln AC/DC Tombstone, and got nice smooth beads with no worm beds, so I feel pretty good about that. I just wonder if it's working correctly re: engine speed.

[X6C7016]

look at this
http://victortechnologies.com/IM_Upl...430429_493.pdf

[Broccoli1]

It doesn't state that it runs at max RPM in High- just that it will run higher than idle. I assume yours is working correctly.

Check in over on the Miller site and search for Cruizer- he's a tech and is familiar with these machines.

[snoeproe]

I run my engine drive in idle down mode. I'll touch my rod to the work to get the motor to rev up to weld rpm, then strike my arc. I like the less noise and fuel conservation in idle down mode.

[soutthpaw]

Jealous, you stole that. I want one of those with AC. Had the predator for a while and it was DC only..

[Russellritch]

New here team. I recently received a Predator Power Plus unit that is not throttling up when striking an arc. Any pointers on where to start?

[Sberry]

I agree, shouldnt be posting stolen stuff on the internet.