rx7locost wrote:
Now that the Locost is done and sold, I've decided to take the next step in my welding education. I want to learn TIG. I looked at the Longevity and other imported makes. Lack of local service doesn't bother me. I did some research and watched some video reviews. I settled on the AHP 200X model which seems to be as good as it gets for entry level TIG offerings with aluminum capability.
I just placed my order on Amazon.com for 680 +29 S/H.
It comes with a TIG torch, foot pedal and stick weld cable, regulator, etc. I have a spare tank that will be filled with Argon.
Any recommendations as to what else I will want to have? filler types clear gas lens? etc.? Not sure I will ever need the stick-weld function. Maybe....
I speak here as a TIG welding student, not as an expert, Chuck. My experiences learning TIG taught me there is a qualitative difference in the TIG welding experience based on the type of tungsten you use. There are three dominant types. You'll want to try all 3 and see which works best for you on your project material(s) and your welding style.
Get a new grinding wheel for your bench grinder, or a smaller, special use grinder and only grind your tungstens on that machine. Never grind other materials on your tungsten grinding wheel. TIG is very sensitive to contamination of the tungsten. You'll see just how much when you start welding aluminum. Be prepared to be exasperated and become an expert tungsten grinder! Wear a good (3M or similar) paper mask when grinding them. I can get you a 3M product number if you like. Amazon sells them, but your local welding supply store should have them too.
Look up "Welding Tips and Tricks" on YouTube and subscribe to the channel. The fellow who produces the videos is a "Good 'Ol Boy", but he is really nice and super-knowledgeable, and produces some great videos for the beginner (and expert). He'll save you a lot of time and aggravation in the learning process if you're learning on your own.
You can typically take TIG classes at a Community College, but that might be too slow for you. They rarely let you use the great (and expensive) TIG welding gear unless you take an introductory class first, or can demonstrate good welding ability with more elementary processes like stick and MIG.
There are some good uses for stick welding, and the welding rods have been developed to an unbelievable degree for specific applications, but stick is not well suited for the lighter materials we use on a Locost. It might have been great for that trailer project you did, however.
Have fun!