30 replies to this topic

[ClassicAlex]

Hi guys

 

I have ordered a big bulk of panels for my 1991 Rover Mini 1275cc, and this is my first project so I am fairly new at this, I was wondering which welder is recommend getting to do the job quickly and easily. 

 

Cheers

[Ethel]

The highest rated Mig you can reasonably afford, but it needs a low setting that won't blow holes in thinner steel. The high power rating helps to ensure a decent duty cycle so you get consistent welds and don't have to wait for it to cool down too often.

 

A  gasless capable welder is handy, but it's easier/cheaper for hobbyists to get hold of gas bottles now.

[megamini_jb]

I use a Clarke 135TE. Does a super job.

Edited by megamini_jb, 01 May 2015 - 11:13 AM.

[surfblue63]

One who knows what he is doing!

[alex-95]

I use a Clarke 135TE. Does a super job.

This^^^

[spiguy]

 

I use a Clarke 135TE. Does a super job.

This^^^

 

Agreed. Great welder for not alot of money. I have one also.

[Tommyboy12]

A Clarke 135te or something around that will sort you out proper. I recommend a hobby gas bottle (9 litre Hobbyweld or something similar) to go with it. Disposables are a waste of time.

[ClassicAlex]

A Clarke 135te or something around that will sort you out proper. I recommend a hobby gas bottle (9 litre Hobbyweld or something similar) to go with it. Disposables are a waste of time.

 

 

 

 

I use a Clarke 135TE. Does a super job.

This^^^

 

Agreed. Great welder for not alot of money. I have one also.

 

 

I just had a look at the Clarke 135TE, it is slightly out of the budget. Was wondering if there is a decent one for slightly cheaper.

I have found this on amazon and was wondering if anyone has used this and is it any good? http://www.amazon.co...ords=MIG welder

 

Thanks!

[Woody001]

Like most things, it depends on funds available. Yes the Clarke welders are great for the money, I'd personally go for something like this http://www.weldequip...martmig-162.htm its a little more, but has a few features that will probably outlast the Clarke.

 

I use a MAC tools welder, basically a rebadged Cebora welder, really nice to use on thin sheet (low amps) but can also weld up a lorry chassis +10mm thickness.

 

Either way, it would probably prove wise to call weldequip and have a chat with them, they are most helpful.

 

Also, have a look on http://www.mig-welding.co.uk/ for a lot of good advice and tips.

As suggested, get the bigger gas bottles, Co2/Argon mix is best with a regulator to suit, an auto tint mask and some good gloves.

 

Whatever you get, spend some time welding - and don't just weld nice shiny metal, weld some old bits off the car, you'll be surprised at the difference!

 

Good luck with the welding and enjoy using it.

 

Ian.

[ClassicAlex]

Like most things, it depends on funds available. Yes the Clarke welders are great for the money, I'd personally go for something like this http://www.weldequip...martmig-162.htm its a little more, but has a few features that will probably outlast the Clarke.

 

I use a MAC tools welder, basically a rebadged Cebora welder, really nice to use on thin sheet (low amps) but can also weld up a lorry chassis +10mm thickness.

 

Either way, it would probably prove wise to call weldequip and have a chat with them, they are most helpful.

 

Also, have a look on http://www.mig-welding.co.uk/ for a lot of good advice and tips.

As suggested, get the bigger gas bottles, Co2/Argon mix is best with a regulator to suit, an auto tint mask and some good gloves.

 

Whatever you get, spend some time welding - and don't just weld nice shiny metal, weld some old bits off the car, you'll be surprised at the difference!

 

Good luck with the welding and enjoy using it.

 

Ian.

 

Hi Ian 

 

Thanks for the detailed information but as I was saying earlier I am on a tight budget and I was only planning on using the MIG welder on the Mini as I don't normally use welders, and it seems to be cheaper to buy one than rent one! 

 

I am looking at spending about £150 - £200 on the welder but if its strongly recommended to get Clarke 135TE or equivalent then I will have to find a way of getting the money for that.

 

Cheers

 

Alex

[RedRuby]

Have a look at this one, item number 261864428447, on e-bay it's a Clarke 151te on a buy it now of £157.50 plus £13.95 postage

[JonnyAlpha]

I bought a second hand Clarke 160EN, wire feed is a bit iffy at slow speeds due to a wonky spindle but its been fine. If I bought new I'd get a Clarke 135TE as suggested above. 

[Ethel]

The one you linked seems adequate on paper,  as are the Clarkes that are a bit lower rated and not turbo cooled. Not usually noticeable if you sit it in a draught and weld a bit, grind a bit. Don't overlook the cost of a regulator and proper bottle too.

 

Buy cheap and you will wish you'd bought something more capable at some point.

[sonikk4]

Seriously consider a fan cooled mig like the Clarke. It is easy to over heat the non fan cooled type. As already mentioned consider the 135TE it will everything you need to do on a mini plus more. I regularly abuse mine and it's still going strong.

[ClassicAlex]

Seriously consider a fan cooled mig like the Clarke. It is easy to over heat the non fan cooled type. As already mentioned consider the 135TE it will everything you need to do on a mini plus more. I regularly abuse mine and it's still going strong.

 

 Yeah it looks like this is the welder to get so I will order it soon! eBay seems to be selling one for £275 with all equipment needed to start up so probably go for that one!

 

http://www.ebay.co.u...=item565e60e4e2

 

 

Cheers!