[Destroyer]

Originally Posted by scook

The only thing I’d add to D’s list is that fumes from welding galvanized material are really deadly. I’m planning to buy a Millermatic 211 - supposed to be VERY user friendly, which is what I need. There’s a guy in the neighborhood who does beautiful multidisciplinary work (built a small teardrop trailer that’s a work of art), whose certified in both steel and aluminum - says he’ll teach me to weld with it and I’m not turning down the offer. I’m looking forward to adding more metalwork to my projects.

Unless you're doing it for a living, welding is one of those skills that you rarely need, but when you do need them they are real handy to know. Want to add another roller to your trailer? Weld one in place. Want to make a bird feeder? Weld one up. Emergency repair of ? Weld it.

Just remember to get a real good helmet. Personally, I love the instant darkening ones that Harbor Freight sells. So much easier than the old style where you had to flip the helmet down over your face. The batteries in the unit last several years depending on the usage. (And although they say that the batteries are not replaceable, if you know how to solder you can buy replacement batteries on ebay for less than 5 bucks) They're just regular button batteries, but with solder tabs on them. Mine uses (2) CR2032 batteries. All you need to do is melt the solder holding the old batteries and then solder the new ones in place. It's so simple that anyone with even basic soldering skills can do it).

I like the Millermatic 211. A bit pricy, but like all Miller products it has a well deserved reputation. Plus you can do MIG, MAG and Flux core welding with it. Very versatile.