Hi, new to the forum and am looking to purchase a tig/stick welder in a few weeks

[mrflashlite]

I know that it would probably be cheaper and I think that you are right about it being a labor of love thing. I don't know if you get on you tube very often but there was a guy on there who built a trailer for a 27' C and C sailboat that I thought was one of the best designs that I've seen in a while and I contacted him to see if he cared if I built one similar and he didn't seem like he had a problem with it. I don't like to steal other peoples ideas without asking but I don't have time to make all the mistakes myself and I like to learn from what other people have proven works. You are right and if I run across a trailer that I like before I start mine I would surely go that way. As far as the tig torch goes do you use the one that they show, it just seems a little large and that it may be hard to get into some areas, I like to use a foot pedal and I was reading the review for the new 2013 200dx that they changed the foot pedal to be more like I'm used to where you set the max amps at the panel and when you step on the pedal all the way it holds those amps and as you let off on it the amps decrease as you pull out. The foot pedal and the dual voltage are big plus for me but I also like the upslope on the 250ex for startup on aluminum???? I will have to make up my mind as I listen to input here. Thanks for any feedback, Ed.

[DaveO]

As far as the tig torch goes do you use the one that they show, it just seems a little large and that it may be hard to get into some areas

I think this question may be directed to me- I should tell you I'm a TIG newbie and still learning, and I'm using the stock 26 torch that arrived with the machine. I haven't encountered a "torch is too big" or "won't fit in tight spaces" situation. Yet!

The dual voltage *is* very convenient- the IMIG 200 is also dual voltage, and great for portability, although there is a reduction in duty cycle you may want to consider or be aware of. The 250EX will weld thicker materials, and requires a water cooled torch and cooling system to do so.