Running my PA160-STH on a 100v extension cord (no bueno)

[SeanMurphy265]

One of the best investments I have made is a 100ft 10 gauge heavy duty extension cord. I have an air compressor that will trip its breaker with any cord thinner than 12 gauge. You would probably be better of with a shorter cord, & longer welding lead.

[joshuab]

One of the best investments I have made is a 100ft 10 gauge heavy duty extension cord. I have an air compressor that will trip its breaker with any cord thinner than 12 gauge. You would probably be better of with a shorter cord, & longer welding lead.

Honestly, I am going to invest in a good 10/3 extension cord with 6-50 ends some time soon. I have always heard that, given the choice, you should get a longer power cord and use shorter welding leads. 220v does a better job keeping the voltage up over distance, it's only one cable, instead of two, and the amps are lower, so the gauge is smaller. I reckon 25-50' of 10/3 will do me just fine. This isn't the first time I've wished I could move the welder further from the outlet.

[Mr120]

One of the best investments I have made is a 100ft 10 gauge heavy duty extension cord. I have an air compressor that will trip its breaker with any cord thinner than 12 gauge. You would probably be better of with a shorter cord, & longer welding lead.

Amen to that brother. 10 gauge 100ft cord is heavy to haul around but helps bring the welder to the work. Voltage drop can ruin a lot of good equipment.

[Gerry]

I've got 2 ext cords, 1 30' 10ga & 1 25' 6ga that I use. Both plugged together the voltage drop is roughly 3v at a 40a load. Main thing is heat build up in the cord.
If you use a cord reel, make sure you pull all the cord off it if you going to be using it for awhile.
A 100' 10ga cord at 20 amps will drop roughly 4 to 5 volts, at 30 amps it will drop over 6 volts.