It's been a a few years since I bought my Millermatic 175, but in 2003, it was the only one in that range that I could find that had variable voltage control. As a controls engineer in a automotive frame plant, I've learned that this is important and truly worth the extra money over one that had just a few voltage selections as the variable voltage will adjust for adjustments that won't necessary affect welding technique and cycle time. Most professional welders that I know love being able to adjust a couple of tenths of a volt and start welding rather than adjusting 1 full volt, adjust wire feed speed, and welding speed to make an appropriate bead. I've been using my 175 for trailers, home projects, etc., but I wouldn't mind getting a Millermatic 210 ir 251 to do heavier stuff if I need to. Too bad I can't get 3-phase at home since I know where I can get a Miller Deltaweld 451 or 452 for cheap.

I also prefer Miller as that's what we use at work, and the Miller reps come by the plant all the time.

 

Is that a stick welder or MIG?

 

I've got a Century 90/105 with gas, and it does everything I have asked it to do? Granted I'm not building dump truck frames, but for light work it's perfect. I seldom go over 1/8" metal thickness.

It was dual flux/gas capable. The worst part is spending the $200 plus for the bottle. Once you get that overwith, the refills are cheap by comparison. I will NEVER go back to flux core. The cleanup alone was excruciating, lol.,,,,98

It simply not worth it to spend $1000+ for a machine you're not going to make a living with. Just my opinion......

 

However if I had it to do over again, I would get a 170 or 175.,,,,98

 

Miller 251 great welder and has come in very usefull.If I had to do it again though I think I would have bought a tig .A good tig job you can't beat!