.030 should get you started.

 

Yup, that is what I use, if you need more penetration just turn the speed up.

 

Cool. I'll probably get another paycheck in and then go for it, so perhaps in a couple weeks, I'll be practicing it all day!

 

You will be welding in a few passes............

 

I've welded before...with a stick welder...with old rods...and it turned out pretty good

 

I use a Handler, for body work. Doing up the rockers use .023 solid wire w/75/25 Argon shielding gas for the best results. Rockers can take a little more heat than body panels, but still take breaks and move around. With that wire/gas combo, you don't create near the heat, -at -least 1-1.5" back to back beads buttoning those up.

Using 30 wire is a little more difficult, - can be done definitely. Without gas, use Lincoln wire only (Fluxcore). DON'T use Harbor Freight wire, unless you have no choice lol. They're little 90 amp Fluxcore welder can be used, as long as you use Lincoln wire with. I use it once in awhile, - but it's not a Hobart, - far from it lol. Duty cycle isn't real important for body work because you have to tag and cool. Anything around 1/8" you'll want it.

Hobarts a great machines IMO, - it's a step down from a Miller machine because some of the parts/accessories used in the Hobart machines/kits aren't as durable or heavy duty. The Hobarts are plenty durable, great machine to work with. I've upgraded the ground clamp, but that's it.

EDIT: BTW- You can purchase new tanks online, Full 75/25 for around $120. That's for a small one tho. Tractor Supply usually won't carry supply the tanks/ -insurance reasons I've been told. A Welding supply outlet local should be the cheapest route.

Always purchase as much welder as you can afford. You get what you pay with the name brands IMO. Also, if your thinking of used. Look at an older Miller, - damn things are bullet proof and will perform.

 

So, after some more searching, it's still between the Hobart and this one I found at Lowes:

http://www.lowes.com/ProductDisplay?...llow&cId=PDIO1

Would y'all choose Lincoln over Hobart or vice versa?

 

Either, both are about the same. Get as much welder as you can afford.

You need more or better. Most of those old millers are about bullet proof, - so used is a good investment there. The best, can't get much better than a Miller.

 

Sorry. Carry on.

 

Please buy a American welder.
Miller makes light duty machines, but you'll eventually outgrow any small welder.
Had a Millermatic 180 and within 4 month bought the Millermatic 252.
All's real good now!