i-Tig 201 compared to i-Tig 200T

[Rambozo]

The same thing happened when they came out with the 255EXT. They kept the 250EX in the lineup as there are a lot of people that preferred to have the knobs. It is nice to be able to see all your settings in one glance. For some it's a big deal. I don't really care, one way or the other, except that I know pots get dirty over time and need to be cleaned to have smooth control. Of course membrane and tac switches have a lifespan, too. Before CNCs had cycle counters and spindle hourmeters, you could tell how much one had been used by the condition of the cycle start switch. If there was a hole worn in the touch panel and all the lettering was gone, you know the machine had a hard life.

It was mentioned some time ago that Everlast has been moving to all digital circuits, but has left the analog user interface on some models for those that want their knobs. But inside it's a digital welder. The best of both, the worst of both? I guess that's up to you.

You should have no problem running 6011, just try a few brands until you find what works best for you. Inverters in general require slightly different techniques with fast freeze rods. No big deal once you get the hang of it.

[aland]

It was mentioned some time ago that Everlast has been moving to all digital circuits, but has left the analog user interface on some models for those that want their knobs. But inside it's a digital welder. The best of both, the worst of both? I guess that's up to you.

Yes, it's kind of like a hybrid in the sense that the control circuit is digital, but it has analog controls that mange it. Where on the 200T it is completely digital. However, the 201 is an analog machine. I think the potentiometers simplify using it, but it seems I'm sacrificing better functionality possibly to have them. There's a lot of things to poke around through on the digital control including memory...and it just seems simpler to me. And, with a pedal there's less to set. OTOH, I don't think I'll out grow the 201, and I rather like that fact that it didn't come with a pedal as I would buy a new one anyway.

I wish they would offer some units without a torch, electrode holder, grounding...would allow people to buy the type they prefer/like. If they offered all the accessories at an attractive price over the base price, it would give those who don't mind those to buy them, or if others wanted to buy other after market brands, they could buy the base model and do that.

You should have no problem running 6011, just try a few brands until you find what works best for you. Inverters in general require slightly different techniques with fast freeze rods. No big deal once you get the hang of it.

I have a couple pounds of Lincoln 6011 to try, and I just got a 10 lb. tube of 1/8" 7018.

I will start out by running some padding beads on some pieces of plate.

I will try to test it out tomorrow.

Alan

[Rambozo]

I wish they would offer some units without a torch, electrode holder, grounding...would allow people to buy the type they prefer/like. If they offered all the accessories at an attractive price over the base price, it would give those who don't mind those to buy them, or if others wanted to buy other after market brands, they could buy the base model and do that.

I would like that as well, and have asked about it, but the way they import and ship, it's just not practical to have two SKUs for each machine or open and repack things. Too many opportunities for mistakes, too.
Having said that, if you call and discuss just what accessories you want, it is often possible to do some upgrades before they ship your machine. Things like a longer cable set, a CK torch, or SSC pedal. They do a pretty good job with customer service, when you give them a chance.

[aland]

I would like that as well, and have asked about it, but the way they import and ship, it's just not practical to have two SKUs for each machine or open and repack things. Too many opportunities for mistakes, too.
Having said that, if you call and discuss just what accessories you want, it is often possible to do some upgrades before they ship your machine. Things like a longer cable set, a CK torch, or SSC pedal. They do a pretty good job with customer service, when you give them a chance.

I didn't know that, I would have upgraded to a ck flex head if possible. I didn't see any on their site. I was looking to buy some usa made cable to extend the leads...and then looking at replacing the ground clamp with a tweco, cause it will need to be 25 feet also. I'll be left with little or no Everlast accessories in the end.

That's ok, the unit is what I needed most.

Alan

[aland]

I would like that as well, and have asked about it, but the way they import and ship, it's just not practical to have two SKUs for each machine or open and repack things. Too many opportunities for mistakes, too.

I get that part, but that still doesn't help that I'm replacing most everything they provided me. I really don't think I will be left with any of the provided equipment in the end, other than the welder itself. I will probably keep them for backups, and like most things I've done that with in the past...get replaced with other better backups...LOL

Alan

[performance]

Good luck on finding USA made cable. CK is not. Take a look at the NOVA torches, or rather inquire about them. They are in our testing equal to CK. Nothing wrong with the work clamp on that unit. You can get a heavier clamp of course, but try it out first.

[aland]

Good luck on finding USA made cable. CK is not. Take a look at the NOVA torches, or rather inquire about them. They are in our testing equal to CK. Nothing wrong with the work clamp on that unit. You can get a heavier clamp of course, but try it out first.

There's a place on ebay that sells usa made cable for $1.30/ft for AWG 2. That is what is needed for 200amps, AFAICT. I could use AWG 1 if I wanted to go one size up.

https://www.ebay.com/itm/WELDING-CAB...r/381826680645

EDIT: these guys are in Fremont, local to SF Bay for me, but shipping looks cheap.

Alan