Oh yeah, definitely. My low-cost MIG welder (50%/50% split) is a headache sometimes! Wire speed changes -- rather becomes too low -- when it gets too hot internally, what results in ugly spots and unsealed, ugly welds. Then you know it's time to let it rest a few minutes or seconds and rather start cutting, rolling or finishing another piece. On warm summer days it really eats you up!Dave wrote:[...] but I also get the feeling that the quality of the welder (both human and machine) plays a part in the equation. [...]
Thus my split becomes building when the weather is cold and ugly and running the engines when it's nice and warm outside.
But, well, it's a compromise you're getting used to.
After having it tried for myself a LITTLE bit, I can tell: TIG is pretty cool!
But I think MIG still is the one amateur pulse-jetters -- and not only they -- can face a lot of upcomming welds with. Thick to thin, thin to thin, thick to thick etc. at least when refering to sheet metal 0.8 to 4mm. Small things of thicker material aren't a problem, too, as e.g. spark plug mounts for "Steve" sized ones.
And, Dave, the first 5kg of welding wire (MIG) are the thoughest! Just try to weld something once every one or two months, not even a whole engine, but just to keep your skills at hand.
