Im somewhat in the market for a TIG welder in the near future, what should I be looking for? Im really going to be looking for a used machine so I can get more capability for the money. It will be used for light/medium duty stuff, mostly car/bike, so I dont need anything huge or watercooled.

 

a buddy has a miller diversion 165. welds SS , Aluminum and pretty much everything you would need. its 220 powered and does a great job if you get a foot pedal control another is a lincon 225

 

http://cgi.ebay.ca/MILLER-SYNCROWAVE...item53e10b0ecf



This is medium unit, its got a cooler, but its a heck of deal for what it is.

I wouldn't buy anything below 230 amps, if you intend on doing aluminium welding. I have a 180 sd, ok for anything up to 1/8th inch, past that its pushing it. I often have to preheat.

 

I did a lot of searching and finally settled for a Lincoln Square Wave 175. It's more than most people will ever need for home use. Saves on electricity, and is easy to upgrade to a water cooled torch. I highly reccomend it. I found mine and a few others in the area with EVERYTHING including 130 cu. ft. argon tank for 1k, or close to it.



The only thing i don't like is the torch cable is very stiff. Just upgrade to a WP-20 water cooled torch and get an old watercooler on eBay. Or for around 100 bucks you can build your own watercooler. You'll need one if your going to weld for more than 10 minutes strait, or less if it's aluminum.