Chicago 90 amp flux core welder

[dirtsailor2003]

I see that Harbor Freight has the 90 amp Flux COre welder on sale this weekend for $89.99 (normally) $149.00. I am thinking about picking one up for doing small welds like those needed on some of the smokers I am building. I have looked at the reviews online and they seem to be pretty positive for the machine. I wouldn't be doing anything other than hobby work with it. The fiancee has a long list of "if you only had a welder" projects...

 

[dummy que]

 90 AMPS is not enough power to weld anything but the thinnest of material you would probably hate yourself in the morning

 

[boykjo]

NoOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO............................ I would stay away from the off brand units, Try to buy something like lincoln, hobart or miller. If you cant and your budget is around 100 dollars . Look at Craigslist in your area.........look this one up.....HF Mig welder - $100 (South Eugene)

 

[smoking b]

Don't do it Case!!!! I personally know 2 people that bought HF welders (despite several  warnings from friends 

)  & they both wish they had listened!  Trust me - you won't be happy with it if you buy it. I've worked on them & seen how they are built. The duty cycle is pathetic on them too. Joe gave you great advice - try to get a Miller, Hobart or Lincoln & you won't regret it 

EDIT:  Oh yeah - the 2 guys that bought the HF welders both ended up getting Millers shortly after trying unsuccessfully to get the Chicagos to do what they needed...