PowerMaster 205 issues

I have a PowerMaster 205 that I bought sometime around 2009. I went to use the TIG the other day and all I get is the HF spark, it never switches to the arc. I also tried to use the plasma, and it is sputtering and popping at the torch, and lots of clicking in the welder. If I hold it on for a minute, it eventually lights and I can cut something, but if I let go of the trigger I have to start over again and it takes a minute for it to light off so I can cut. I did change all of the consumables on both the TIG torch and the plasma, and no difference. Any ideas?

Thanks!
Rob

Gee,

I had a GiantTech plasma/TIG multi unit from around that time, which worked great, and still does, I believe. It had a dual set of HF contact points, one for the DC TIG and one for the Plasma. I never had to adjust the gap though, but I'd check those tolerances on your unit.

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Originally Posted by robr54

I have a PowerMaster 205 that I bought sometime around 2009. I went to use the TIG the other day and all I get is the HF spark, it never switches to the arc. I also tried to use the plasma, and it is sputtering and popping at the torch, and lots of clicking in the welder. If I hold it on for a minute, it eventually lights and I can cut something, but if I let go of the trigger I have to start over again and it takes a minute for it to light off so I can cut. I did change all of the consumables on both the TIG torch and the plasma, and no difference. Any ideas?

Thanks!
Rob

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You probably need point adjustment. Have you tried to touch the tungsten to the metal while trying to start the arc then lifting up? That would test the inverter to see if it is putting out. If the arc starts, it should just be the points. If not the inverter is dead or control board is out.

Hi Mark.

Yes, I have tried touching the tungsten to the metal, no change. I did find the points last night and will check them out today just to see if that makes a difference.

Thanks!
Rob

With pedal/switch pressed? If you have, and nothing happens it is not going to be HF adjustment, but something more in depth.