240v Flux Core (with gas option) Welder

[frostyflammable]

So I have been rocking the el-cheapo flux core sub $100 welder for some time now and it has done what I have asked of it. I would like to do some upgrading while still staying with flux core option mainly for the ability to weld outside in windy conditions... where I live the winds are probably too strong to use a gas welder but I would like the option.

Another thing I would like is 240v (my current is 120 only).

Finally I do not use my welder a lot so those industrial grade super duper fancy high end are not needed, and preferably (if possible) would like to stay under $500 although the more I look the more I realize that is very hard.

Anyone have suggestions?

Thanks.

 

[mckutzy]

I have welded with gas/fluxcore. I typically use a fan at my back or nearby, it just gets too smokey sometimes... With that being said... some baffling, walls or simply a sheet of plywood nearby help with the gas be blown away...
With that being said 220/240 will definitely help in any regards to a welding machine.. now itll have some kinda balls to run decently...

Off hand Blue/Red/Green and Yellow brands are always good... but it depends on what youll like to spend..

 

[itsid]

Didn't Ryan converted a flux-core a while back?
(too bad we can't ask )
I remember he was looking for a rectifier that handled the currents needed... *headscratch*
Wait?
kentucky boy converted his as well, no?

'sid

 

[frostyflammable]

I know this is HF and all, but I have had my eye on this one for a while.
https://www.harborfreight.com/mig-170-professional-welder-with-120240-volt-input-64805.html

This is a brand new brand so I am not sure about longevity however if there is a coupon for it anytime soon I may be tempted.

 

[slicksonly]

Anyone have any suggestion's

I think the HF welder will do the job, down side would be parts in five years, duty cycle burn up, out side the rain and wind will shut them down for doing the job.

I'm running a Miller 180, .030 wire, mix gas, 220 plug, and there is nothing Mickey Mouse about it. I see it's not listed on the new catalogs. For parts I just go to the store.

Every one wants a cheap welder and with that you get cheap welds.

I saw and add in the 1960's Popular Mechanics mag. about using a battey changer and coat hanger for the welding rod.

 

[Kartorbust]

I know this is HF and all, but I have had my eye on this one for a while.
https://www.harborfreight.com/mig-170-professional-welder-with-120240-volt-input-64805.html

This is a brand new brand so I am not sure about longevity however if there is a coupon for it anytime soon I may be tempted.

I've been eyeing the larger brother to that one myself. The digital display is nice and will give you better control than the generic A, B, C, D and 1-10 wire speed that the cheapies use. Otherwise the Hobart 210 MVP should be a decent machine, but that uses the alphabet and numeric for voltage and wire speed.

https://www.harborfreight.com/unlim...cess-welder-with-120240-volt-input-64806.html

https://www.tractorsupply.com/tsc/product/hobart-handler-210mvp-mig-welder?cm_vc=-10005

If you have the change, Everlast welders seem to be pretty good as well.
https://www.everlastgenerators.com/product/mig/power-i-mig-200e