Good welders with generators

[ericsarratt]

I forgot I had started this thread. Thank you for all your replies.

I like keeping computer technology out welding aka Bells and Whistles.

Yeah, I lean more in this direction with most things mechanical.

They also a pain to work on and seems like always need repair.
If forget to keep fresh batteries the display dies never to work again.

Computer technology is great for a lot things but not welding machines.

Yeah this worries me. I suspect replacing a board on a computerized welder is about like a board on a heating and air unit--$400 or more.

I figure, if I am picky, I can get a pretty good machine with no computerized parts that will do what I want. I just need to do some occasional stick welding on my own stuff.

[ericsarratt]

It would be very helpful to know your budget?

I'm shooting for under $1000, but ideally $500-$600.

[ericsarratt]

It also provides power during the occasional outage just for the shop lights and computer and alarm system.

Yeah, this is my thinking with a generator welder. I suspect I will find other uses for it with that capability away from a power outlet.

[ericsarratt]

Is the OP still here? What's your budget and the biggest size of rods you plan to use (or thickest steel you plan to weld)?

Yep, still here. I got busy with other threads (and life stuff).

My budget is $1000 or so, $500-$600 if I can pull it off. I just need a stick welder.

I am a general contractor. If the right small job comes along that I feel comfortable doing I will do it myself instead of subbing it out. Anything larger and I just get one of you guys (or gals); I know my limits.

So, maybe 3/8" steel? What are your thoughts?

I also have a 12,000lb excavator that I suspect will need some welding at some point. I also plan to buy a tractor (medium sized--think Ford 8N sized tractor). And I am gonna buy an bulldozer (as large as possible) 1-2 years down the road.

[Willie B]

I have a 2006? 2008? Bobcat 250. mine has the Onan-Subaru-Wisconsin-Robin engine. Most say this is not the best engine, but mine has been fine. In every sense, it is a fine machine, puts out AC, DC constant voltage, or constant current. It provides 120/240 household current up to 10,000 Watts.

Most say the Trailblazer produces a better arc, (more steady).

[geezer]

I am similar to Wille B, lincoln Ranger 8, Kohler engine, 9,000 peak, 8,500 constant and it powered our clubhouse and main home couple times during extended outages. I would prefer to have a 10K peak machine, but we are carefull what we run and how we power things up. The main thing I dislike is its manual fuel pump, newer models have electric. AC/DC and remote control plug in. We live on four acres in the country nearest neighbor 1/4 mile away. I personally would not be without one. If I cannot get something to the shop, I can go to it. And that has happened couple times, plus it will power smaller 240 vac mig machines. Used ones pop up from time to time on CL and Market place.