I'm shopping for a new welder to replace my SIP 100 migmate, its not quite got the beans for chassis welding when you get to the 3mm plate bits!

Anyone got any experience of the 150amp ERP welder?
http://www.welduk.com/Details.asp?ProductID=73

Thats my favourite at the moment with the clarke 150TE second. I prefer the ERP because it has a big bottle gas reg and carry shelf, thats about the only difference that i can see.

Any opinions at which one would be better? Am i right in thinking both of these are up to most jobs involved in the locost build?

I am right in thinking that the 100amp welder i have isn't up to the job aren't I? Can't really afford a new welder but i have put alot of work into the chassis now, don't want to spoil it with poor standard welds.

thanks very much for any input and advice!

If you want the proper reg and shelf the clarke 160TE (bottom of their 'industrial' range) is the one to compare.

Ned bought one http://www.locostbuilders.co.uk/viewthread.php?fid=2&tid=11041

Sure either will do just fine. Cost difference is about a £5 just to make the decision harder

ive got the 160TE and can highly recommend it.
its and excllent welder for the price.

ive had a sealey 150 turbo which im sure is the same as the clark for ten years and has yet to give me any grief

quote:

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Originally posted by birdii
I'm shopping for a new welder to replace my SIP 100 migmate, its not quite got the beans for chassis welding when you get to the 3mm plate bits!

Anyone got any experience of the 150amp ERP welder?
http://www.welduk.com/Details.asp?ProductID=73

Thats my favourite at the moment with the clarke 150TE second. I prefer the ERP because it has a big bottle gas reg and carry shelf, thats about the only difference that i can see.

Any opinions at which one would be better? Am i right in thinking both of these are up to most jobs involved in the locost build?

I am right in thinking that the 100amp welder i have isn't up to the job aren't I? Can't really afford a new welder but i have put alot of work into the chassis now, don't want to spoil it with poor standard welds.

thanks very much for any input and advice!

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My clarkes gone through a full 5kg reel with out a hitch, where as the cosmo(sip) one i had couldnt evan manage a 0.5kg reel without at least 5 jams at the rollers

quote:

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Originally posted by Gav
My clarkes gone through a full 5kg reel with out a hitch, where as the cosmo(sip) one i had couldnt evan manage a 0.5kg reel without at least 5 jams at the rollers

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I have the ERP 150A machine and generally speaking it produces decent enough welds. However my only complaint is that the wire feed mechanism comprises of plastic gears, which seem to break up fairly easily. I have finished my car from scratch using this welder and needed two replacement gears (same gear incidentally - possibly an alignment problem with my machine?). I got them for pennies from the ERP factory, although you need to speak to the right person, otherwise it costs a fortune. Other than that the machine is fine and perfectly adequate for most Locost related jobs.

I have no experience with other 'hobby' type welders, although i would hazard a guess that they are all much and such and it is really a case of you get what you pay for.

Thanks for all your replies!
I treated myself to the ERP welder and i'm very pleased with it! Instantly improved welds and i think they are definately getting the penetration now!
Hopefully i can crack on and get this chassis finished now!