I'm looking for a cheapish mig welder capable of welding aluminum projects. Looking at stuff like custom piping, v-mount brackets etc. Probably nothing over 1/4" thick.

Suggestions?

 

Ummm probably going to need a tig for the specified work.... if you want a sealed vessel.
I suggest a miller for the brand, but the exact model is preference based on what you need or can live with.

I want to get one as well but never came across the right combo of deal/usability ratio.

anyone here have some good recommendations on models and good usability for hobbyists and DIYers? what to look for and avoid?

 

Well, you have a few options, but you have to ignore the "cheap" part. There is no such thing as a good cheap mig welder that will handle aluminum. I run a Syncrowave 180SD with watercooled torch and a Millermatic 252 at the shop.

Your best bet for home use is going to be a Millermatic DVI (110 or 220) or Miller 210. Both will handle a aluminum spool gun which can do 1/4 aluminum. Both will run you just shy of $2k fully outfitted for aluminum.

Honestly a Millermatic 135 for $400 used and a used Syncrowave 180SD for $800~ will get you further. Aluminum welding is NOT easy and TIG is a far better process. It may be financially smarter to find someone who can do it locally for ~$30h. Even if it takes 10h to weld up everything, your only in $300.

 

If i every need to buy another welder it will definatly be a stick/tig/plasma trio.You can get a decent one for 1000 or less.

 

So tig? The thing I can't just run out and have a welder do it.

I am thinking along the lines of fabricating so I need the ability to spot weld the aluminum....get it right and then bead it. So do you think tig would be better? I am getting ready to pick up a pipe bender in the next couple weeks and really want to get into some fab work.

 

You mean tubing bender, right?

Not quite the same thing.