Want to learn to TIG weld

[Maximal]

TIG's are expensive, especially for a decent one. It might be better to just to pay for a class to learn then buy one once you get it mastered.

[Intropy]

TIG's are expensive, especially for a decent one. It might be better to just to pay for a class to learn then buy one once you get it mastered.

What's an example of a decent one?

[box]

Remember if you're wanting to tig aluminium, you'll need an AC/DC welder (most of the cheapies are DC only), so expect to be paying about 1k atleast for just the welder, add to that gas and appropriate equipment.

Shop around for a welder, some can do mig and tig, others tig and arc (stick) and some do tig arc and plasma cutting Comes in real handy, tig is good for fine work but its nice to have a mig welder to do real work aswell, similarly a plasma cutter for cutting

Also invest in an auto darkening welding helmet, pretty much gives you an extra hand to work with

[AdamVR4]

What's an example of a decent one?

Miller and Lincoln have been the top dogs for a while now, I think.

My Dad's gotten a lot of use out of his miller syncrowave, but all said and done it cost a little over $2k several years ago.

Like I said though, it might be worth investigating the china TIG I posted earlier. If I recall, you can get them for way less than the advertised price... "just make an offer"

Also invest in an auto darkening welding helmet, pretty much gives you an extra hand to work with

+1!

[Intropy]

Cool, all good tips, thanks guys.

[RealMcCoy]

Get a brand name welder... Used on craigslist is always an option. I practically stole my syncrowave 180 that way. There's no way I could afford a machine like that new...

The best learning resource available on the web: WeldingWeb™ - Welding forum for pros and enthusiasts - Powered by vBulletin (I suggest lurking, getting to know the players, and learning what you can with searches. When/if you do post, I suggest humility in the presence of masters... Some of those guys are amazing craftsmen, and more than willing to share what they know, but just as quick to rip an idiot to e-shreds...)

This site is one of the best on the web for instuctional videos: Welding Tips and Tricks - TIG, MIG, Stick and a pantload of other info

[J. Fast]

IMO a Miller 211 and a spool gun is quite adequate for what you're looking to do J. For a hobby welder that's all you will ever truly need for steel or aluminum. You can generate the same quality welds as a TIG with a quality MIG by working slow and implementing good technique. Tig is cool and all but only if you're going to move into exotic metals, want to ooh and ahh, and can justify 4 grand on getting setup with a quality welder like a synchrowave. Add a tank, rods, gas, gloves, shields, a good hood, additional cutting and fab tools and you're off into the 5 thou range.

Only way to learn is to buy a setup, some metal, plug it in, clamp the ground and drop the hood. A really interesting analagy a great welder told me once. "Bead moves like water and cooks like bacon".

[TurboSinceBirth]

I like my Miller Dynasty 200 welder for portability and ease of use although I'm hoping to get some more practice time in once I finish some projects so I can do my own FMIC fabbing plus maybe some exhaust work. If you don't mind the bulk a Miller Synchrowave 180 would be a good unit.