I am contemplating getting a basic welding setup, aminly for sheet metal/ body work and some light fabrication.

What are some things to look for?

amp controls, wire feed? or should I just go with a regular arc welder (no gas)?

Can I get a decent setup for use with 110V? I currently have 220V in my garage, but if I move, that might be a costly installation if the new place doesn't have 220V, etc..

On the helmet, I have seen those "Auto-darkening" helmets, and they seem pretty nice. They also seem like they might be a good idea for a beginner (wouldn't have to "bob" my head to drop the shield, and try to weld in proper place... Just seems easier and more fool-proof...

Any other suggestions?

Right now I have two cars that will eventually need panel replacement, plus I am sure there will be more in the future, but probably only one car every couple years, so just a basic setup. Like to stay with a quality brand, but inexpensive setup...

Thanks...

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There are plenty of good 110v machimes to choose from. I have a Miller 135 which features a variable voltage setting and built in gas valve. Other machines can be had for less, but are still good quality machines. Hobart Handler 135 and Lincoln SP 135 MIG welders are affordable and set up for gas.

Autodark helmets are great and you can get one at Lowes home improvement for about 125.00 worth the investment and easy on the eyes.As far as welding 0.20 wire for the panels(less heat and warpage) and use gas-not cored wire.Welders are another story,you can get an o.k. 110v for 250 up and you can spend about 300 to 400 for a good 110v welder.The cheaper I found out doesnt weld as nice and eventually youlle get sick of it and spend real money and move up to 220v.I just bought a Miller 251 that will weld from thin tin to 1/2 an inck thick plate.You never know when youre going to need it for things like that......so my advice"spend a few bucks"you will not hate your self later when a big job comes along
Kevin

I have small lincoln 110v welder I have used for over 15 years for sheet metal, works great. The welding shops sometimes rents welders. Here is a photo of some of the sheet metal work I do with my 110 welder.
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[This message has been edited by PGreen (edited 01-24-2003).]

i am much happier with my 110 VAC mig which uses argon gas. there is no slag build up and much cleaner. also my quick change helmet is a must for hands free work. well worth it. if you going to do, make it easy on yourself.

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I have a 110 snap on mig that is just adequate for sheet metal. can't weld much more with it. I just got an auto darkening helmet and my welding has improved allot. I wish I would have went 220.
Roger

thanks for the replys...

decisions, decisions...

I too am a novice welder . I purchased the Lincoln 135 SP. It has the gas feature and and also allows infinite voltage adjustments instead of the click click of oher machines.
I took the advice of MARTINSR in his "basic of basics welder" article and purchased the Accustrike welding helmet(around $90.). It is activated by the chin and is very easy to set up and use.
I hope this helps
John

I never welded before, but the Lincoln 125 SP on 110 volts is absolutely adequate for auto body welding. Use .023 wire, nothing thicker. Get the gas designed for auto body welding, here my supplier actually labels the tanks "automix". Buy a good quality auto darkening helmet. It improved my welding immensely. You will see exactly where you are beginning to weld. I was terrible when I first began with the old fashioned helmet. HOpe my experience helps you decide.