To weld or not to weld? that is the question!

[Nebr_Rex]

Like Tim said,the instructor will catch what you are doing wrong and point you in the right direction.
Go ahead a buy the Lincoln and start practicing. I bought mine in the late 90s and still works fine.
I run flux core through it because I have a bigger machine for tig and stick.
Flux core will put out more and hotter splatter so protective clothing is an issue( you need it unless you like getting burnt).
But I recommend you use it because it will have a little bit easier of a time burning through paint,oil, and rust if surface preperation not that great.

 

[legendary_rider]

I just have a really cheap lincoln mig HD equivalent to 100. No gas with flux core. It isn't that great compared to other units but I still love how much I can do with it. I weld in shorts and a t shirt. lol. Yeah its like frying bacon naked but whatever. It does make more splatter but I grind stuff down and powdercoat it anyway. If you were leaving them bare where you see the welds then I'd go with the gas. For 120 bucks though cant complain right?

 

[Djfob]

I just have a really cheap lincoln mig HD equivalent to 100. No gas with flux core. It isn't that great compared to other units but I still love how much I can do with it. I weld in shorts and a t shirt. lol. Yeah its like frying bacon naked but whatever. It does make more splatter but I grind stuff down and powdercoat it anyway. If you were leaving them bare where you see the welds then I'd go with the gas. For 120 bucks though cant complain right?

I was about pick up a 110v Lincoln with gas bottle pretty cheap used . From my research though it will only weld up to 1/8". Going with a Lincoln 180 since most of my welding will be done between 1/8-3/16. Want to make sure its done safely with proper penetration.

 

[SONICJK]

I use a 110v lincoln and routinely weld 3/16-1/4 without an issue. You just go slow.
I built an entire bumper and tire carrier for my jeep with it, it gets beat all to hell all carrying 150lb 37" wheel and tire on a pivot.
110 is way more than adequate for a bike.

I see so many people buying 220V machines and spending hundreds to wire up their garage etc because they think the 110 cant handle what they want to do. Thats ridiculous. 95% of the time the 110 is more than adequate, and when its not, make two passes.

 

[Nebr_Rex]

Here is my Century 130.
Dual range, totally adjustable feed and heat.
Came with a gas regulator but I use .030 flux core.
Works good welding up old exhaust that is not to thin.
Burns hot enough to get through the carbon and rust.
Bought it back in the late "90s and one day I might get around to replacing the liner.