Cheap MIG welders - worthwhile or no?

[Dave_S]

So, many years ago I did a welding course, then bought a cheap MIG, which I used to put floors, sills and the likes into a couple of old Minis. Then life and kids happened and I've not done any bodywork for a while...

Fast forward 20-odd years and I now have a couple of vehicles needing some bodywork repairs and I'm debating buying a cheap MIG again. So the question is, has the technology moved on in the last couple of decades, and are cheapie MIGs worthwhile buying? Thinking something like this: IMPAX IM-MIG-120 120A MIG/MMA Welder (Gas/Gasless) 230V - Screwfix - [Leaving Land Cruiser Club]

Any thoughts welcome.

Cheers guys.

 

[AndycruiserguyLomas]

My thoughts Dave, get the best second hand quality one you can find. We have a Nexus 3 phase one at work which was £950 20 years ago and it makes me look good. However when Chris was clearing out I got his Butters single phase Mig which I think is UK made and that is a good piece of kit too. Look at reviews and research. There are stacks out there. Lincoln Electric are one of the best.

 

[Towpack]

I've still got my Clark 100E I bought in 1991 and it's still going strong and plenty powerful enough for body repairs. It played up recently which turned out to be a fault with the torch so I fitted a Euro Torch conversion kit for £80 and it's now welding better than it ever did. I would recommend going with gas rather than flux cored gasless.
I had (still have) my eye on a R-Tech TIG or TIG/MIG welder but they are relatively expensive.

 

[chapel gate]

The R-tech 180 is very good for the money.

 

[CyprusPete]

I would recommend a mig that uses gas, such a Co2(pub gas), it’s better for bodywork than flux core.

 

[karl webster]

Another shout for the r tech. I personally didnt buy one in the end as a good higher end second hand welder popped up for sale. I have the r Tech plasma and know lots who have the welder and rave about them.