OK so I have a question. I have the chance to pick up either a Miller trailblazer 251 NT or a 280 NT. I can't find very much info on these since they have since been replaced in the product line. I like the idea just because not only could I weld, but also have a back up generator for the house all in one.

My problem...will either of these do TIG welding on aluminum? AC tig I believe without having to drop 5K into accessory boxes? I know they are both capable of TIG but I believe DC only?

Thanks

Seth

 

Go grab a Diversion 180. Both of those are gas stick welders made for mobile job site welding.

 

Yes I understand they are mobile site engine drives, but i can get them at no cost to me. So those are my choices if I decide to take one.

Basically I have an extra Iranian rug I brought home from my last trip. He has some miller welders...I need a welder...he collects persian rugs.

The catch is I need a welder that can do aluminum....the generator set is just a bonus for the saltwater tank back up plan.

 

To keep it simple, either of those will do aluminum and you need to look at a Syncrowave 180SD -250 or a Diversion/Dynasty.

Cheapest is going to be a used 180sd that needs a 60amp 220v circuit around $1200 with bottle.

 

Ok I looked at the recommendations you gave me. I know those are more suited to home use etc etc.

I was just wanting to know what additional parts/components I would need to use a 280NT as a AC TIG. I am assuming the following

Tank
and
Something similar to a HF251 D1 High frequency starter or similar 14 power pin starter.

 

It really depends on what motor and the hours either of those have if you even want to spend the time. I would personally take the Kohler powered unit, because I know they still stock parts.

You will need:
Torch
Gas regulator
Bottle
HF251

Problem is going to be these machines are good at making big arcs for 1/4" + welding. That is where they are going to hold the most stable arc. I have read of lots of people TIG'ing with the 280, BUT not on anything 1/8" or thin wall. The question should be, is it worth the investment if it wont do what you want it to. You could however sell it if it does not do what you want, for something that will.

Let us know what you decide

 

Thanks for all your help Spyder. I'm going to go look at these as well as a miller shopmaster 300 which includes the torch and bottle and will do everything all in one machine probably this weekend.