I've found the exact same thing with the 160STH I have. The problem no longer gives me starting issues after I took the advice of others on this forum and began "tapping" the pedal and using the post flow as pre flow, but I agree that this has never been an issue with any other (name brand) regulator I've used with other tig welders. Of course for the reasonable cost of the Everlast units, most can afford to upgrade to a better regulator down the road.

I was surprised to hear that your 185 allows for amp control through the panel knob when using the foot pedal! Very cool! I had to make a stop for my pedal so that I could quickly and easily tack sheet metal without filler, but it sounds like the new machines will let you make a simple adjustment of the knob instead. As much as I've thought about the PT185, I think I'm more set on getting the 200DX for the extra 15 amps and pulse settings.